March 11, 2025, Minutes

Kalamazoo Lake Harbor Authority Douglas & Saugatuck, Michigan Kalamazoo Lake Harbor Authority Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Saugatuck Township Hall, 3461 Blue Star HWY, Saugatuck, MI Meeting held in person and zoom Call to Order: Vice Chair Waskin called the meeting to order at 5:03 PM Roll Call: Present: Waskin, Donovan, North, Freeman, Igansiak, Raphael Absent: Engel, Peterson Also Present: DeFranco, Nocerini, Cummins

1. Approval of Agenda: a. April 16, 2024, Meeting Agenda A Motion by Raphael to approve the March 11, 2025 meeting agenda as amended. Support by Ignasiak. Discussion: Freeman added “Discussion of No Wake Zone” as item “c” under New Business Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. 2. Approval of Minutes a. April 16, 2024, Minutes A Motion by North to approve the April 16, 2025 minutes as presented. Support by Igansiak. Discussion: None Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. 3. Approval of Invoices: No Invoices 4. Public Communications: a. None 5. New Business a. Election of Officers A Motion was made by Raphael to approve slate of Harbor Authority Board Officers as follows: Waskin (Chair), Freeman (Vice Chair), Igansiak (Secretary). Support by North. Discussion: DeFranco recommends that each municipality have a representative serve as a Board Officer. Donovan proposes following slate for Harbor Authority Officers: Waskin (Chair), Freeman (Vice Chair), Igansiak (Secretary) Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote.

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Kalamazoo Lake Harbor Authority Douglas & Saugatuck, Michigan

b. 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule A Motion was made by Raphael to schedule quarterly regular meetings on the 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 5:30pm. Support by Igansiak. Discussion: Freeman noted that the Douglas Harbor Authority meets at 4:30pm on the same day. Recommends moving meeting time to 5:30pm. Board members discuss monthly vs. quarterly meetings. Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. c. Discussion of No Wake Zone Discussion: Freeman reviews proposal from Saugatuck City resident of establishing a No Wake Zone for the entire Lake Kalamazoo. Presented as information only. Board members discussed the diverse interests of community members, challenges in enforcing a no wake zone, and whether a no wake zone would be supported by the Municipalities. Cummins noted Saugatuck City’s work on researching the process of establishing a no-wake Waskin requested that the Municipalities publish a survey to gauge public support for a no-wake zone on Lake Kalamazoo. 6. Unfinished Business a. Edgewater Resources Proposal A Motion was made by Igansiak to approve a proposal from Edgewater Resources for Kalamazoo Lake Harbor Authority Ongoing Services at a not-to-exceed amount of $12,000 and have Managers request of their respective Municipalities a contribution of $4,000 each to financially support the proposal. Support by North. Discussion: Waskin notes that the Authority Board has heard presentations from Edgewater Resources and discussed this proposal before. Nocerini recommends that the Board approve the proposal and make a financial request of the Municipalities. Roll Call: Yea: Waskin, Donovan, North, Freeman, Igansiak, Raphael Nay: None Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote. 7. Reports: a. Committee Reports i. Douglas Harbor AuthorityFreeman reports that Douglas has demolished a derelict building at the Point Pleasant waterfront and plans to construct a pavilion and public restrooms at the site with the assistance of a $100,000 grant. Douglas is making improvements at Wades Bayou. Harbor Authority discussing what improvements will be planned for in the coming fiscal year budget. Invasive species continue to be treated in bayou. b. Manager Reports i. NoceriniProvided update on Ferry Street culvert replacement.

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Kalamazoo Lake Harbor Authority Douglas & Saugatuck, Michigan

ii. CumminsNoted City Council is prioritizing monitoring water levels. Moving forward with another round of milfoil treatment. Working on improvements to boardwalk areas in the downtown. iii. DeFrancoProvided updates on ecological, habitat and recreational improvements at River Bluff Park. Requested that the Board consider having the municipalities share the responsibility of hosting the Harbor Authority. Noted that Douglas hosted Harbor Authority for many years and that the Township has been hosting the Harbor Authority for about 2 years. 8.

Public Comments (Limit of three (3) minutes) None

9. Authority Member Comments: Igansiak: Noted his condo association has concerns with number of geese on their property and docks Raphael: Alternate Saugatuck City representative on Harbor Authority and participating in Peterson’s absence Waskin: Thanked all new members. Donovan: Noted that public boat launches in Douglas are nearing exposure due to low water levels, especially the Union Street boat launch.

10. Adjournment: A Motion by Donovan to adjourn the meeting at 6:12pm. Support by Freeman. Discussion: None Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. Next Meeting: 5:30pm, Tuesday, June 10th

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Kalamazoo Lake Harbor Authority Douglas & Saugatuck, Michigan

Motions

1. A Motion by Raphael to approve the March 11, 2025 meeting agenda as amended. Support by Ignasiak. Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. 2. A Motion by North to approve the April 16, 2025 minutes as presented. Support by Igansiak. Discussion: None Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. 3. A Motion was made by Raphael to approve slate of Harbor Authority Board Officers as follows: Waskin (Chair), Freeman (Vice Chair), Igansiak (Secretary). Support by North. D Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. 4. A Motion was made by Raphael to schedule quarterly regular meetings on the 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 5:30pm. Support by Igansiak. Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. 5. A Motion was made by Igansiak to approve the proposal from Edgewater Resources for Kalamazoo Lake Harbor Authority Ongoing Services at a not-to-exceed amount of $12,000 and have Managers request of their respective Municipalities a contribution of $4,000 each to financially support the proposal. Support by North. Roll Call: Yea: Waskin, Donovan, North, Freeman, Igansiak, Raphael Nay: None Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote. 6. A Motion by Donovan to adjourn the meeting at 6:12pm. Support by Freeman. Voice Vote: 6-0 Motion carried by unanimous voice vote. Respectfully,

Daniel DeFranco Saugatuck Township Manager

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St. Joseph, Michigan Pompano Beach, Florida Madison, Wisconsin

CLIENT’S INITIALS ___________________

Gregory J. Weykamp

Principal and President of Edgewater Resources

Greg Weykamp, ASLA, LEED AP, BD+C has more than twenty-five years of experience in the planning and design of the public realm, with an emphasis on implementation of sustainable built landscapes and urban waterfront environments. He is a CLARB and LEED Certified landscape architect, and his project experience spans waterfront parks, marinas, master planned communities, urban revitalization, streetscapes, parks, and recreation facilities. With extensive experience leading and facilitating the public community outreach process, and years of working with municipal agencies in the design of the public realm, his sensitivity to issues of social equity keep communities engaged and projects on track. Greg was Principal of the Chicago office of EDAW AECOM, one of the most prominent planning and landscape architecture firms in the world. He has worked on internationally significant projects, including Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, the Olympic Village for the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Gateway and 31st Street Harbors in Chicago, and the redevelopment of Denver’s Stapleton Airport into an award-winning urban infill residential community incorporating traditional neighborhood design strategies.

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q1 Do you live in: Answered: 742

Skipped: 26

City of Douglas

City of Saugatuck

Saugatuck Township

I do not live in the area.

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

City of Douglas

19.54%

City of Saugatuck

32.21%

Saugatuck Township

29.65%

I do not live in the area.

18.60%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q2 Do you own a boat? Answered: 718

Skipped: 50

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

85.24%

No

14.76%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q3 If yes, what type of boat do you own? (Check all that apply) Answered: 654

Skipped: 114

Pontoon boat Powerboat (runabouts, bowriders, d... Wake boat/wakeboard boat Sailboat Jet skis and other personal watercraft Fishing boat (bass boats, aluminum... Cabin cruisers Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Pontoon boat

20.95%

Powerboat (runabouts, bowriders, deck boats)

50.61%

Wake boat/wakeboard boat

1.07%

Sailboat

6.42%

Jet skis and other personal watercraft

8.10%

Fishing boat (bass boats, aluminum fishing boats)

10.55%

Cabin cruisers

25.99%

Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards

24.01%

Total Respondents: 654

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q4 Do you rent or own a slip, on Kalamazoo Lake? Answered: 744

Skipped: 24

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

56.99%

No

43.01%

TOTAL

4 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q5 What activities do you primarily engage in on Kalamazoo Lake? (Check all that apply) Answered: 746

Skipped: 22

Fishing

Cruising/Sights eeing Water skiing/Tubing Wakeboarding/Wa kesurfing Kayaking/Paddle boarding/Canoei ng 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Fishing

5.36%

Cruising/Sightseeing

76.14%

Water skiing/Tubing

4.83%

Wakeboarding/Wakesurfing

0.13%

Kayaking/Paddleboarding/Canoeing

13.54%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q6 Have you observed or experienced situations on Kalamazoo Lake where wakes contributed to safety risks (for example, near-misses or accidents)? Answered: 753

Skipped: 15

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

43.29%

No

56.71%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q7 To what extent do you support designating the entire Kalamazoo Lake as a no-wake zone, considering that it may improve safety but could also extend travel times and limit some boating activities? Answered: 765

Skipped: 3

Strongly Support Somewhat Support

Neutral

Somewhat Oppose

Strongly Oppose 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Strongly Support

35.69%

Somewhat Support

11.76%

Neutral

6.41%

Somewhat Oppose

11.11%

Strongly Oppose

35.03%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q8 Do you support expanding the no-wake zone around marina areas? Answered: 755

Skipped: 13

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

64.37%

No

35.63%

TOTAL

8 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q9 Do you support making Kalamazoo Lake no-wake for vessels over 26 feet? Answered: 760

Skipped: 8

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

72.37%

No

27.63%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q10 Do you support imposing restrictions on wake production by certain vessel types (e.g., wake boats or wakeboard boats) to improve overall safety, even if it may limit some recreational boating options? Answered: 751

Skipped: 17

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

67.24%

No

32.76%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q11 Would you support limiting the hours during which activities like water skiing and tubing are allowed on Kalamazoo Lake if doing so could reduce wake-related safety issues, despite potentially reducing available recreation time? Answered: 757

Skipped: 11

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

56.67%

No

43.33%

TOTAL

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q12 In your opinion, are the current no-wake regulations adequately enforced? Answered: 745

Skipped: 23

Yes

No

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes

49.26%

No

50.74%

TOTAL

12 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q13 What additional boating regulations or concerns should be considered for Kalamazoo Lake? Please include any thoughts on how safety measures might be balanced with the needs of boaters for timely lake access and recreational opportunities. Answered: 327

Skipped: 441

RESPONSES

DATE

Transit time is hardly affected due to the small area. With marinas bordering so much of the shoreline it’s absurd for wake producing water sports

5/30/2025 12:00 PM

Restrictions could be in place only during the time the sailing classes are happening. Otherwise, small motor craft have no opportunity to go tubing, jet skiing or just enjoy a fast ride. Currently, the water level in the river is so low there are few other areas to use a watercraft with any amount of speed.

5/30/2025 11:50 AM

Leave it alone, I have lived in Saugatuck all my life and we need to stop catering to the 1% of complainers…Kalamazoo lake is meant for recreational activities….

5/30/2025 6:52 AM

This will make it so time consuming to go to Lake Michigan. It will also cause issues for silver lake

5/29/2025 9:10 PM

One of the problems we encounter is rental boats not having a clue about the rules of boating.

5/29/2025 8:54 PM

If you stop the wake zone on the Kalamazoo River, I live on Silver Lake and we’re going to have everybody trying to bring their boats out here. This will make it dangerous for the small lake to have that many people out here at once.

5/29/2025 8:47 PM

Enforcement

5/29/2025 3:14 PM

No concerns

5/29/2025 9:00 AM

In my experience, instituting a no wake zone across Lake Kalamazoo is unnecessary. Balance seems to already exist with current regulations as there is a lengthy no wake zone up and down river of Lake Kalamazoo. This effort seems to be a solution looking for a problem. If the city wanted to regulate something, it should address the playing of loud music on vessels, which is a distraction to safe boating and disturbance of the peace.

5/29/2025 8:33 AM

I’ve boated in this area for 30 years. There are more boats now but never have I experienced safety issues due to wake.

5/29/2025 6:55 AM

It seems to work well as is.

5/28/2025 11:05 PM

Spot check life jackets and boat safety equip

5/28/2025 10:54 PM

No wake for the lake. Sick and tired of boats being thrown around at the dock because of rude boaters.

5/28/2025 6:44 PM

None

5/28/2025 6:37 PM

Would be nice if the lake could be dredged at some point

5/28/2025 6:31 PM

Drinking and driving + rental pontoons who have drivers who aren’t experienced or familiar in driving a boat or the lake are the main issues truly for wake issues and safety so focusing more on those regulations & crackdown would help a lot. Thx!

5/28/2025 6:19 PM

Leave it the way it’s always been

5/28/2025 5:50 PM

Better marking of No Wake Zones.

5/28/2025 5:49 PM

5/28/2025 4:49 PM

NA

5/28/2025 4:21 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 21

I am strongly in favor of the entire Kalamazoo Lake becoming a no wake zone. We have had a boat in Saugatuck since 1973 and have owned two slips at Sergeants since 1987. The problems that the wake zones have created have dramatically increased with the increase in the number of boats using the lake. It has made our fuel dock extremely dangerous for our employees as well as for the vessels fueling. It also makes boarding the boats docked here dangerous. I have had items on my boat broken as well as some exterior damage. Unfortunately there was never a need to report the incidents because the offending boats were outside of the no wake zone. Kalamazoo Lake is too small for it to contain any wake zones. Safety should always be the first priority.

5/28/2025 4:10 PM

More enforcement is needed and signage as most tourist boaters do not know the current no wake zone

5/28/2025 3:40 PM

Some of your questions don’t really apply. Like, I kayak, but mostly on Wade’s bayou, not Lake Kalamazoo. I SeaDoo across Lake Kalamazoo but only to get to Lake Michigan. As a former parent and board member at Saugatuck Yacht Club I seriously question what impact a lake-wide SNW zone would have on daily operations and safety. Instructors need to be able to do their job without concern as to whether they are producing a wake or not. I suppose if it was 26’+ craft restriction that could work. I waterskied on Lake Kalamazoo in the 80’s but I would not recommend it these days due to depth and obstructions. Most lack of enforcement I see is on the river…and charter boats are worst offenders. If hours were limited for boats to the same as they are for PWCs, (“no towing, 1hr before sunset to 8am”) I’d not have a problem with it. I think it’s hard to regulate what constitutes a “wake plus” boat vs just a boat producing a wake. And some non-wake boats produce as much or more of a wake as a wake boat. However to make or even consider restrictions, such as those found in the proposed State of Michigan HB5532, would be a terrible mistake. There is no reason for a 20’ depth requirement and no reason for a 500’ distance limitation. Under MI law, boat operators are already responsible for damage their wakes create. I see very little IF ANY operation that endangers or does damage anywhere on Lake Kalamazoo…maybe one occassional drunk or rental operator flying through at too close of a distance…which could be dealt with if we had more sheriff hours. And the only damage is someone drops their (3rd) martini over at Singapore. This is largely a “problem” created by overzealous fuddy duds who want to “own” more quiet on the water. Get a house or a condo…its not everyone’s job to make sure their boat never rocks.

5/28/2025 3:18 PM

na

5/28/2025 3:15 PM

We need more enforcement. I see so much wake on the river out to the lake now.

5/28/2025 2:36 PM

Get more patrols

5/28/2025 2:09 PM

It needs to all be no wake

5/28/2025 2:06 PM

What we see continuously is boats beginning to slow down at the no wake buoys. This in turn makes the boats drop lower in the water causing larger wakes in the no wake zone. This causes damage to docked boats and safety concerns for people getting on or off boats, or falling if the wakes hit the boats unexpectedly

5/28/2025 2:03 PM

Low areas where trees, branches and ground need to be removed as you can’t see them easy especially at night in the lake that create a big risk if you hit them.

5/28/2025 1:44 PM

I am a concerned about the youth sailors from the Saugatuck yacht club who have Saturday and Wednesday races. Apparently people aren’t aware that they should stay out of the sailboats way and there needs to be more education for power boaters to avoid the sailboat race course.

5/28/2025 1:26 PM

A no wake speed that firs with time zone of 10-6 would support am and evening fishing. Reduce risk and allow for liesurely evening putts.

5/28/2025 1:23 PM

Get rid of the wake zone make the lake all no wake

5/28/2025 1:08 PM

Unless accident data shows a compelling reason including an upward trend, we should continue enforcing the regulations as they are today.

5/28/2025 1:06 PM

With the shallowness if the lake we need more markers for out of town boaters

5/28/2025 1:04 PM

Slow no wake for all of it for safety.

5/28/2025 1:00 PM

Just enforce the rules that are already in place. Increase the police coverage.

5/28/2025 12:50 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 37

If we are having this conversation obviously there have been problems. Give wake boarders, water skiers and jet skiers and such as big a safe area as you can, mark the area!! Then no wake else where.

5/28/2025 12:38 PM

Just a sign in the really shallow area so people quite running agound

5/28/2025 12:32 PM

No wake on the river in town

5/28/2025 12:26 PM

Effect on Saugatuck Yacht Club Sailing program for kids

5/28/2025 12:25 PM

There is a huge lake, Lake Michigan to have fun on.Also, with the low water folks often go very fast, and are clueless to know they may hit bottom and flip over going so fast.

5/28/2025 12:15 PM

How close the wake zones are to docks/boats on the lake. They are too close

5/28/2025 10:53 AM

No wake period.

5/27/2025 12:33 PM

I think that all of Lake Kalamazoo should be no wake for all boats and jet skis.

5/26/2025 12:37 PM

Will leave it in your hands

5/26/2025 7:01 AM

I have no concerns of boat safety. I’ve been boating in the area for over 40 years and have never had issues with boat safety. The sheriff boats do an excellent job monitoring the no wake zone.

5/14/2025 3:37 PM

Boaters need access anytime during daylight hours to without restriction. Try more enforcement of unsafe boat drivers before penalizing everyone

5/11/2025 10:31 PM

I feel limited the no wake zone is not necessary and unsafe in certain situations like when SYC has sail races and the a child flips and needs help the rescue boat can get to them swiftly. But that being said we need better enforcement of the no wake zones

5/9/2025 7:59 AM

Kalamazoo lake is not a large lake and the joy of using the lake is the tranquil basin where you can safely traverse the lake at all times. We also spend considerable time boating in the Inter Coastal waterway where no wake zones are frequent and enforced. Once in place, everyone will enjoy the opportunity to boat without safety concerns

5/6/2025 3:52 PM

Not a boating regulation but the weeds are terrible.

5/3/2025 8:28 AM

regulate noise levels...some motors can be heard for a long time even when the boats are completely out of sight.

4/30/2025 10:49 AM

Need more water police presence. Maybe the marinas complaining can open their checkbooks to fund it.

4/30/2025 4:24 AM

None

4/29/2025 9:30 PM

Safety for the JR sailers at the yacht club.

4/29/2025 7:41 PM

Enforcement of lights on boats using the lake at night including moored boats. Temporary docking at dinghy docks, instead of staying all weekend.

4/29/2025 7:17 PM

Enforce existing regulations, more boating restrictions is NOT the answer!!

4/29/2025 10:27 AM

I live directly on Lake Kalamazoo and have for the last 9 years. I enjoy watching the families that come to Saugatuck to participate in the water recreational activities we are so blessed to have. Every day in the summer I watch the boaters, tubers, jet skiers, paddle boarders, and kayakers. Even on days that are less than ideal, I see families out enjoying the water on Lake Kalamazoo because that is the time they have taken for their summer vacations and have chosen Saugatuck to bring their entertainment time and dollars to. I have even watched a float plane land on Lake Kalamazoo. I am a boater and a kayaker myself. I have a good deal of kayaking and boating experience. I have kayaked for a week long trip in Canada and have kayaked in Valdez, Alaska. I have seen and assisted kayakers on the canal going out to the big lake in trouble due to the normal big lake wave action and the traffic on the canal but I have never seen anyone have an issue on Lake Kalamazoo. There is already a large area that is a no wake zone and plenty of space for kayakers and paddle boarders if they are not comfortable with the wave action as more experienced are. Also, Michigan Law already states that there is to be no wake 100 feet from any boat dock, etc. In addition there is a bill (HB 5532) in our state legislature that has been proposed but not passed yet prohibiting wake boarding within 500 feet of any dock and must have 20 feet of depth. I think Lake Kalamazoo is too small for any wake boarding activities and I have never seen any wake boarding activity

4/28/2025 11:00 AM

15 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations on Lake Kalamazoo. But I would support a restriction on sport wake boarding, but am strongly opposed to additional total ban on wakes on Lake Kalamazoo. We must continue to encourage tourism in our town as it is our only industry. Making the whole lake a no wake would send the families that come in the summer to Saugatuck elsewhere. 58

More dangerous to me are all the boats anchored out with multiple anchor lines in the bay

4/27/2025 8:13 PM

Leave it the way it is. Patrol more often

4/27/2025 6:21 PM

No wake for boats over 26’

4/27/2025 11:26 AM

Sheriffs should be out for safety and not to harass boaters

4/26/2025 5:21 PM

None, the tourism is already under attack by all the rent cap fight.

4/25/2025 12:49 PM

The chain ferry needs warning lights when crossing. It's a hazard especially when newcomers are bringing their boats down the river.

4/25/2025 12:33 PM

Driving while under the influence should be better controlled

4/24/2025 8:43 PM

More clearly marked navigation area. Once you pass Gables it’s kind of ambiguous as to where to be unless you have your charts pulled up.

4/22/2025 3:28 PM

I think it should be no wake for boats 23 ft and over

4/22/2025 11:17 AM

People that don’t have a boat should not have a say. All these people that want these restrictions are not boaters and have no idea. Dont ruin our fun and we should be able to go faster on the Kalamazoo river to get out to Lake Michigan. Loosen the rules not strengthen thank you

4/21/2025 7:20 PM

It takes us 45 minutes to get to Lake Michigan as it is. Stop the fun police! If you don't own a boat you shouldn't have a say. The Karen's are ruining our city.

4/21/2025 7:20 PM

The biggest consideration should be the extended travel distance, especially for small boats under 26’. Small boats don’t create anymore of a wake then a windy day does, and their minimal wake size isn’t constantly damaging or unsafe.

4/21/2025 4:36 PM

There is too much No Wake. In the city and around marinas it makes sense. Upstream to the park and downstream to Lake Michigan has extensive no wake that is unnecessary. It limits fishing opportunities unnecessarily.

4/21/2025 3:43 PM

My concern with questions 9 & 10 have to deal with discerning the size of a vessel. Not many people can adequately tell the overall length of a boat. Who wants to be stopped for operating a 25 foot boat because it was thought to be a 26 footer. This may cause more problems than good. Who is going to pay for, install and maintain signs, buoys, etc? I've read the Michigan legislation on this and I know it's not the responsibility of the DNR or the Sheriff's Dept., so who is responsible for these things? And who determines what classifies a boat as a "wakeboat"?

4/21/2025 3:19 PM

As a resident on the lake, I don't have any concerns with the current regulations.

4/21/2025 2:46 PM

More enforcement on holiday and festival weekends.

4/21/2025 10:21 AM

Fishing boats should be required to stay a certain distance from the overhead bridges as some tend to block the passageway

4/20/2025 10:27 PM

No opinion.

4/20/2025 11:29 AM

None

4/20/2025 10:32 AM

Stop taking away the people’s rights. Fight for every right we have. Stop special interests

4/20/2025 7:32 AM

Better enforcement

4/19/2025 6:50 PM

Total no-wake for the lake would solve the wake problem, but would also decrease recreational use of the lake. More wide-spread no wake zones and better enforcement would seem like a better option for all affected.

4/19/2025 4:45 PM

We should expand the Sheriff's marine coverage too enforce the rules and laws already inn existence, and better deal with those who will violate any wake restrictions.

4/19/2025 2:05 PM

I live on the Kalamazoo River across from Oxbow, so I am more familiar with the issues we

4/19/2025 11:13 AM

16 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations have further down the river. Overall, when boaters get to that point, the no-wake rule on the river is not honored or regulated by my home/dock. Perhaps this is because boaters are further away from Kalamazoo lake and there is very little enforcement for most of the year, but we are for making the entire Kalamazoo a no-wake zone and keeping just the big water (Lake Michigan) the wake zone. It is so bad that most homes are required to have a sea wall to protect from erosion and our boats on lifts and in the water and jostled around by the wake of boats flying up and down the river at all times of the day. 82

No wake for fuel dock!

4/19/2025 8:50 AM

it is safegreat record

4/18/2025 11:25 PM

most boaters are great, it is the few that create an issue

4/18/2025 11:21 PM

none

4/18/2025 11:16 PM

Boaters rights are important as 99% of the boaters cause no problems this focus is on 1% that cause 99% of the WAKE issues

4/18/2025 11:03 PM

Increased awareness of sailing lesson/races/securing of the permitted sailing area.

4/18/2025 9:52 PM

NA

4/18/2025 6:23 PM

support boaters rights

4/18/2025 4:29 PM

Enforcement and a more visible presence of sheriff and coast guard boats patrolling Tighten up the regs for boat rental businesses

4/18/2025 4:27 PM

Boat rental businesses should better educate their clients on boat safety and etiquette with rules to read before taking a boat out on the water. It is so easy to spot newby boaters because they are breaking so many boating safety rules endangering others.

4/18/2025 3:51 PM

The channel is already long enough to get to Lake MI. No wake would add more time.

4/18/2025 2:21 PM

enforce the marine laws we have in place

4/18/2025 2:00 PM

I believe the small lake size and shallow depth make tubing unsafe. I also believe it’s important for boaters to have an area to open up their throttle to ensure proper boat and engine operation before proceeding onto Lake Michigan - watercraft engines perform differently at low speeds versus under load and having an engine cut-out on the big lake is not what any boater wants to experience.

4/18/2025 12:39 PM

address the wake boats issue

4/18/2025 12:24 PM

Leave it how it is

4/18/2025 11:04 AM

The water way is Saugatuck's greatest reason for people to be here. Not allowing water-skiing, wakeboarding, PWC use, etc. would be a major reason for people to vacation elsewhere. Large boats producing a large wake is not necessary for their use..... Most large vessels are making way to get to Lake Michigan or simply parading the river (sightseeing). Police boats stopping PWCs for wake violations is ridiculous. They hardly create a wake.

4/18/2025 9:20 AM

wake boat issue needs to be addressed at state level as these wake boats are destructive everywhere

4/18/2025 8:35 AM

No additional regulations are needed.

4/18/2025 7:59 AM

Make all of Lake Kalamazoo no wake.

4/18/2025 7:57 AM

More enforcement of drunken boaters

4/18/2025 7:55 AM

If you have a problem with wake regulations, call the cops. There are already regulations in place that aren't enforced. Stop punishing the ones who obey the law because there are a few bad eggs

4/18/2025 7:52 AM

Like the idea of imposing hours for no wake during specific times, and also during festival/special event periods, which are higher traffic periods.

4/18/2025 7:12 AM

wake boats can be a problem as their wake is greatly exaggerated by design

4/18/2025 4:16 AM

dredging & weed control

4/18/2025 4:03 AM

17 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 106

Could consider more buoys

4/17/2025 11:13 PM

No wake enforcement near anchored vessels

4/17/2025 9:08 PM

Stop the regulation madness. The STR ordinance has already negatively impacted the value of my property and has unduly limited my estate planning goals.

4/17/2025 7:09 PM

NA

4/17/2025 6:12 PM

More clearly mark the downstream start of the no wake zone when heading up river towards the blue star bridge. Many people are on plane or operating jetskis right up to the bridge when heading up stream

4/17/2025 3:58 PM

More enforcement of No Wake on the river.

4/17/2025 3:33 PM

No more regulations needed

4/17/2025 3:08 PM

I don’t have any concerns with safety issues on Kalamazoo Lake. We do not need additional regulations.

4/17/2025 2:14 PM

I don’t support this because a lot of the people that own boats in those marinas (Singapore Yacht club and others) don’t observe the no wake down the river and through the channel. So I feel they need to have a taste of their own medicine.

4/17/2025 2:02 PM

No tubing and no wake for 26 foot and older. With the young sailors boaters need to learn boaters laws when it comes to to a sailboat under sail

4/17/2025 1:57 PM

If you no wake Kalamazoo lake the problems will migrate to Silver Lake and the up River zone beyond US196 (Harbor Rd) these areas are even more dangerous as the river is narrow and people do “poker runs” at 50-70mph from Deep Harbor Marina to the boat launch under the US 196 bridge this initiative MUST consider adjacent waterways otherwise it’s deflecting from Kalamazoo lake and marinas to property owners on river and Silver Lake.

4/17/2025 1:29 PM

A no wake zone would benefit all boaters alike due to waves and safety issues

4/17/2025 1:27 PM

It gets so busy on the river in summer weekends thst it can be dangerous

4/17/2025 1:20 PM

We have a 13 foot whaler and have been stopped on 2-3 ocasions over the past 10 years for making a wake (tiny one). On the other hand, we see much larger boots violating no wake zones and there is no one around to catch them. Any way the patrolling could be more consistent? Thanks!

4/17/2025 1:18 PM

Enforce what is there now, don’t penalize folks that honor the rules as they exist

4/17/2025 12:55 PM

Zero wrong with current situation. Some people want change for their own self interest. Also enforcement doesn't keep up with things as it is.

4/17/2025 11:48 AM

Given the low lake levels, expanding the no wake zone regulations is crucial.

4/17/2025 11:31 AM

As a boat owner who regularly uses the river, I have personally observed people in rental boats operating these watercraft unsafely and without knowledge of marine (coast guard) regulations. If ever there was a problem with, and threat to, property and public safety, this would be it. Rental boat companies is Saugatuck need to do more to address this issue.

4/17/2025 11:10 AM

Wake is the big one in my opinion. Other than that, people are mostly respectful and safe.

4/17/2025 10:31 AM

None

4/17/2025 10:19 AM

There are few water skiers on lake Kalamazoo and I would hate to discourage this fun sport. Wake board boats are another matter, their wakes are huge and will cause damage to boats in slips-I have seen it happen. As far as I know you can wakeboard on Lake Michigan when it’s calm, but it’s really never calm enough to water ski on the big lake

4/17/2025 9:07 AM

Nothing

4/17/2025 9:04 AM

It’s a safety issue that needs to observe.

4/17/2025 8:57 AM

n/a

4/17/2025 8:57 AM

The entire lake should not be a no wake zone. I would guess the folks that want this are not local, do not own a boat, and are primarily focused on the visual impacts of having wake generating activities on the lake, which is not relevant in my opinion.

4/17/2025 8:47 AM

18 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 131

Na

4/17/2025 8:47 AM

I definitely believe it should be no wake anything west of the red dock. There is just to much traffic on the river and people are not paying attention and don't have enough time to react. A boat does not have breaks. To many close calls this past summer from boaters going to fast in the channel. It causes a lot a damage and safety concerns when boats are rocking so hard in the slips. Also the lake is very low. I believe we are going to experience more issues this summer. Boaters don't understand the depth limits in the river past the red dock.

4/17/2025 8:33 AM

As a previous boat owner I don’t recall seeing no wake sign along the river. I live on the river. There are times when boats do t observe that. Thanks

4/17/2025 8:08 AM

Entire area should be no wake for all boats. It’s safer and would remove the possibility of damage to slip holder boats. If you want to ski or tune go to Lake Michigan and no one has to worry about damage or uncomfortable rocking back and forth while enjoying the afternoon on the boat. Slipholders spend thousands to be in the area and even more supporting local businesses. Personally it doesn’t effect us as our boat is down river but I feel for those that it does

4/17/2025 8:04 AM

wake permitted on river up river from freeway bridge

4/17/2025 8:01 AM

Does the entire lake needs to be a no wake zone? Or could there be zone all around the perimeter of the lake and marina areas? That could be a happy compromise.

4/17/2025 8:01 AM

Too many boat rentals on this lake that didnt exist previously. Boat renters dont k now boating rules let alone the area. The rental owners need to have stronger rules and better information that is given to the boat renters. They should have a chart in the boat showing where to stay in the lake while they are using the boat.

4/17/2025 7:22 AM

Enforce rules already on the books.

4/17/2025 7:07 AM

Jet skis are a huge safety issue.

4/17/2025 6:53 AM

I’ve seen several events of high speed passage from one end of the lake to another, large wakes that have caused issues with kayakers and paddle boards, extreme rocking of boats in marina slips, etc. it would be wonderful to have Kalamazoo Lake a no-wake zone. As a sailor with a larger sailboat, we travel at lower speeds and must go out to Lake Michigan to enjoy our water sport activity. There are days where it is too rough to go out on the lake, which limits our ability to enjoy our water sport activity, but that’s just the way it is. We’ve gotten used to how much time it takes and just enjoy the scenery!

4/17/2025 6:11 AM

The current no wake? I've seen kayaks get tipped under the saugatuck bridge from wake? I've about tipped my boat which is 17ft sea nymph fishing from wake as it travels further. Id suggest that 21ft or more be no wake. Also going up river around the highway bridge no wake as it's skinny there and people fly under the bridge and around the blind corner. That's also a good fishing area and I've seen at least a dozen boats almost hit , ppl fighting. I've been on this river and lake 9 years and know all the bad areas i can make a map for u if needed

4/17/2025 4:44 AM

Dingys and small boats should be exempted and kept current rules but anything 25 foot and up should be kept at no wake. Lake Macatawa in holland now has similar rules in certain areas.

4/17/2025 2:47 AM

Protecting the SYC sailors during races, I have seen sailors knocked off their sailboats from wakes

4/17/2025 12:24 AM

Excessive rafting out at mouth of Lake Kalamazoo on holidays.

4/16/2025 11:14 PM

No wake during prime fishing hours dawn and dusk. I fully support. Also properly marking the shallow areas in the lake would be helpful especially the shallow area straight out from the pike cottages. Also no wake during sailing instruction/races would be smart.

4/16/2025 10:48 PM

Patrol the fisherman in the morning. They break the no wake all the time.

4/16/2025 10:38 PM

With the way the wake zones are in the Kalamazoo River it is very dangerous! There can be 6 foot waves from boaters tubing and around the gas dock and people in their boats it is very dangerous!

4/16/2025 10:33 PM

kalamazoo lake is fairly shallow. We own a stationary dock and our fishing boat takes a beating, especially from boats who are not from the area and there for the day. i fear three

4/16/2025 10:15 PM

19 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations things:1) Disruption of ecosystem and marine life and 2) safety, and 3) destruction of shoreline and existing sea walls. 149

We live on the west side of river, directly across from Coral Gable, we see an extremely large majority of the problem being rental pontoon boats! They have no idea what side of the bouy is no wake! We also constantly have them stopping in front of our house urinating off the boats. It is my belief that you should restrict pontoon rental boats and only allow boats to be rented with a captain who knows the rules. It is more of a safety concern that groups of parties are set loose typically drinking and without knowing the rules other that the 5 minute speech blended in with how to operate a boat before they are set loose on an already congested lake and river. From what I witness everyday this is the biggest concern for safety.

4/16/2025 10:15 PM

bridge heights

4/16/2025 9:34 PM

Rental boats need to know how to navigate!!!

4/16/2025 9:30 PM

We have observed more safety issues with boat or kayaks (some rentals) not observing "rules of the road". Also boats that don't practice courtesy with wake around smaller craft.

4/16/2025 9:28 PM

Need better weed control before it gets out of hand and unmanageable

4/16/2025 9:20 PM

It is so dangerous having a boat at Sergants Marina . Even though the wake zone is a ways out the wake’s continues to roll in to the docks. Making it dangerous standing or walking on your boat. Or getting on and off your boat.

4/16/2025 9:16 PM

Pirates cove drinking, partying and overall public nuisance as the boaters ignore the waterway rights of lawful boaters

4/16/2025 9:15 PM

Additional Electronic Measures that Identifies and helps enforce no wake zones already in place. Example: https://www.knowwake.com/blog/ownership/must-have-boat-electronics/

4/16/2025 9:15 PM

There are simply too many boats in a small area to allow wakes. Docked boats are constantly getting rocked, sometimes violently. K-Zoo "Lake" is really just a wide portion of the river and there are too many inexperienced recreational boats out there. Surprised there aren't more serious accidents. Much easier to enforce no wake everywhere than segmenting it. Limited times would be a fiasco and so difficult to enforce.

4/16/2025 9:12 PM

None at this time

4/16/2025 9:08 PM

Don’t fix something that is not broken

4/16/2025 9:04 PM

None, it’s pretty regulated as it is.

4/16/2025 9:03 PM

More monitoring and enforcement by officers

4/16/2025 9:02 PM

Restrictions on the operational distance from the shoreline or In shallow waters.

4/16/2025 8:49 PM

Sergeants marine should not be allowed to make rules that affect the entire community and beyond. Stop making mores rules that won’t be enforced anyway

4/16/2025 8:47 PM

Get the inexperienced boat renters (Retro Boat Rentals) off the water! Require a boating license to rent.

4/16/2025 8:45 PM

An active full time harbor master is needed for the waterway. The anchorage area for the little lake needs to be well defined and enforced. Often there are anchored boats beyond the no wake markers and in the channel. Boating regulations are a joke in the harbor, rarely enforced and typically directed at small boats. As a professional captain in the harbor for decades and a lifelong resident I have seen countless incidents due to negligence. Just because you can't own or rent a boat does not mean you should be on the water. As for timely access this is an ilfounded reason. The big lake will still be there in 10 more minutes. However as a slip holder there for numerous years our frustration with damage led to finding slips elsewhere. If rules are not enforced on a daily basis there is no point in adding or changing them.

4/16/2025 8:44 PM

I would think having a no wake zone would make it safer for when the kids are lake Kalamazoo for sailing lessons.

4/16/2025 8:37 PM

While we support sailing lessons, please do not allow lessons to include the channel toward safe harbor Marina.

4/16/2025 8:37 PM

None

4/16/2025 8:30 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 169

I feel the reason why there are so many close calls or issues are mainly from people renting boats and it’s their lack of local knowledge or they lack boating skills, or common sense

4/16/2025 8:22 PM

I support significant wake restrictions as it will create a safer and more enjoyable boating experience on the Kalamazoo.

4/16/2025 8:20 PM

No wake

4/16/2025 8:02 PM

Probably over half of the traffic on the river in the summer is rental pontoon boats. It needs to be slow no awake everywhere, for all boats, because it's too confusing the way it is now and no one obeys. There is insufficient pure patrols to enforce any of. The wakes Even from small boats, make all of the boats rock and roll at all marinas which is a safety risk no doubt

4/16/2025 8:00 PM

Enforcement by Sheriff

4/16/2025 7:54 PM

It would be nice to have the lake dredged with the low water levels. It would be nice to have the lake area east of Blue Star HWY up to route 31/196 completely dredged to create another boating and fishing area that is navigable.

4/16/2025 7:50 PM

As the lake level drops we need better markers for the shallow areas.

4/16/2025 7:34 PM

More channel and No Wake markers.

4/16/2025 7:31 PM

None

4/16/2025 7:30 PM

We had our 55 Ocean Yacht in one of the bay end slips at Tower. It weighed 65000 lbs. We were constantly slammed against the dock by the wakeboard boats and even worse the 26 foot sea rays towing tubes all day long. We ended up moving our boat to Grand Haven to get away from it. Both our kids wakeboard or tube - but we had them do it down the river to not create havoc in the marinas. One time I was in the shower and a boat pulling a tube went by so many times the wake rocked us so hard I fell.

4/16/2025 7:27 PM

Dredge all the way back to silver lake or deep harbor marine

4/16/2025 7:26 PM

Rental companies do not tell pontoon renters the rules about no wakes. They are the worst offenders. Boats in the slips up & down the river are often damaged by the wakes. Large wakes wash the shoreline out. I’m also surprised there aren’t more boating accidents. Maybe one smaller area could be used for skiing, tubing.

4/16/2025 7:19 PM

Just how many accidents have happened in the last 10 years due to speeding boats??

4/16/2025 7:00 PM

No

4/16/2025 6:56 PM

Enforce current restrictions. Maybe increase no wake around marinas.

4/16/2025 6:26 PM

None

4/16/2025 6:19 PM

DUI

4/16/2025 6:17 PM

I respect the right of motorized to gain access to the lake but noise from loud boats for residents living along the shore of Lake K reverberates is pretty awful. ( I live on Lake K ). The expanse of water combined with loud boats who rev their engines is pretty miserable. Let’s continue to support non motorized boats!

4/16/2025 6:15 PM

We live on the Kalamazoo. Our association has 17 boat slips across from Shultz park, by 96/31 bridge. If there's a no wake needed it is there!

4/16/2025 6:07 PM

My family and I have been voting on Lake Kalamazoo for over 20 years. I have never had a problem with wakes. this seems to be an issue created by the Singapore yacht club people for their own benefit exclusively

4/16/2025 5:59 PM

We have rented a slip at Tower Marine for 6 summers. We like to end our summer days with a quick high speed loop around Kalamazoo Lake before docking. We have never felt unsafe nor have we ever witnessed a near accident. It’s nice to have the small portion of the Kalamazoo for increased speeds. Meanwhile, we support the no wake zone along the remainder of the river (as it is now).

4/16/2025 5:52 PM

None

4/16/2025 5:43 PM

Limit amount of boat rentals! Too many don’t know what they are doing and adds too much boat traffic to area. Feel this is the biggest safety issue.

4/16/2025 5:30 PM

21 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 192

Wake board boats and boats over 26 feet should be no wake

4/16/2025 5:28 PM

Real mistake to reduce present no wake policy. Needs to be expanded

4/16/2025 5:23 PM

Move no wake markers out further away from the marina

4/16/2025 5:23 PM

None

4/16/2025 5:21 PM

Limit kayaks and paddle boards to areas close to shore - not navigation channel

4/16/2025 5:16 PM

Enforce the rules we have, adding more only impacts the people who aren’t the problem

4/16/2025 5:09 PM

It's no fun at idle speed. It currently takes 45 minutes to get to lake Michigan. It's terrible and it doesn't need to be this way. Please loosen up the current restrictions and definitely don't add more idle speed area. AND if you can't prove you own a boat, you shouldn't get a vote in the matter!!

4/16/2025 5:02 PM

That the STFD and ACSO would be exempt of wake restrictions anywhere on Lake Kalamazoo and Kalamazoo River in emergency situations and calls

4/16/2025 5:00 PM

All no wake

4/16/2025 4:59 PM

Being an owner of a smaller boat and now having a boat in a slip. We did not realize what our wake was doing to people in their slip. It’s a big safety concern.

4/16/2025 4:59 PM

No wake in the river and within 200 ft from any dock on the lake

4/16/2025 4:58 PM

Expanding the no wake zones may lead to more problems with invasive species such as milfoil. I worry that making the lake No Wake will be harmful environmentally to the lake and allow for more vegetarian growth to crowd out the shore line access.

4/16/2025 4:58 PM

I honestly used to be a recreational boater with a speedboat and would be on plane all of the time in the harbor. Now that I have a boat and a slip, I realize how much havoc I was creating for folks and slips when boats go by and create a wake. It is very disruptive and can be hard to keep your boat from hitting pilot ends so when that happens and you’re trying to get on or off your boat, it can be extremely dangerous and it’s also hard on cleats and boats.

4/16/2025 4:52 PM

No jet skis! Most are irresponsible and a nuisance

4/16/2025 4:46 PM

The water levels are very low right now, there are hazards people coming in from out of town would not be aware of. Also we have things fall off our counters due to boat wake. I don’t believe that going to no wake on the Kalamazoo Lake would stop visitors from coming Jered, there’s a big lake attached.

4/16/2025 4:46 PM

Wake on the river make a mess to the boats as rocking back and forth

4/16/2025 4:44 PM

I could see some exemptions for things like jet skis, but the lake is too small to have any boat over 20 feet not restricted from no rules

4/16/2025 4:41 PM

None at this time.

4/16/2025 4:40 PM

Eliminate all no wake zones. I'm tired of hearing the overly wealthy out of towners thinking they now own our town because they have $$. This whole town has turned into a shithole.

4/16/2025 4:37 PM

Those that have slips understand the wake zones. Those that rent or drop boats in for the day often do not. Posting information at the boat ramps and at places that rent watercraft should be increased.

4/16/2025 4:37 PM

I think that overall we have safe and responsible boating community

4/16/2025 4:37 PM

None

4/16/2025 4:36 PM

You might limit boating (or increase no wake zones) during sailboat races for safety. Also, enforcing regulations about boating right of way rules might help maintain orderly boating, particularly in the channel as well as getting to it. There seems to be a very wide range of knowledge about it. It's common to see a seasoned boater become frustrated with those renting crafts who don't know or don't follow the right of way rules.

4/16/2025 4:34 PM

I wouldn't change them, maybe protect by safe harbor and red dock a little more.

4/16/2025 4:34 PM

I would support tubing / skiing activities being banned or limited. It’s not a great body of water for it and with the traffic, that is the only danger I’ve seen.

4/16/2025 4:33 PM

22 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 217

Making the entire lake no wake, isn’t going to remedy the issues residents are concerned with. There are already no wake regulations in effect that aren’t enforced. I once witnessed a county officer yell at a yacht club member for calling about someone breaking wake laws saying that “their job isn’t the yacht clubs private security”. Let’s enforce the laws we have before adding more. All that is going to do is punish the law abiding citizens. I already have a 40 minute ride down the river to get to the lake. Making Kalamazoo lake wake free would make it over an hour… it’s just not necessary.

4/16/2025 4:32 PM

Dredge it. Mark the channel. Do not add wake restrictions.

4/16/2025 4:27 PM

We live on silver lake, connected to Kalamazoo lake by just a small stretch of river, and as an all sports lake, we fear the increased traffic on our lake if Kzoo goes no wake. As long time residents of town, and people who love it for what it is, changing that stretch of water to benefit a select few well to do people, flies in the face of what we love about our community. Keep this town fun.

4/16/2025 4:24 PM

Regulations and boundaries are confusing

4/16/2025 4:24 PM

N/a

4/16/2025 4:24 PM

Enforcing the boat tie up length at Saugatuck does night dock.

4/16/2025 4:23 PM

Enforce current wake regulations.

4/16/2025 4:20 PM

None

4/16/2025 4:20 PM

enforce current laws

4/16/2025 4:16 PM

There should be a no wake area on the channel to the west of the bridge. Boats increase their speed & create a large wake right next to all the slips along East Shore Condos. There is no need for the no wake on the east side of the bridge. It is only a marsh area with no homes or boat slips. Fishing boats are the worst! People slow down or speed up because of the no wake under the bridge which creates enormous wakes on the west side of the bridge!

4/16/2025 4:16 PM

Need to add patrol hours for marine patrol. They currently do 950 hours and additional would help

4/16/2025 4:13 PM

I slipped my boat on the Saugatuck side of Kalamazoo Lake and even though it's fairly large, on Saturday and Sunday afternoons it can be too Rocky to sit on at the slip due to all of the wake from the activities on the lake

4/16/2025 4:09 PM

Nothing. This area has more than enough law enforcement.

4/16/2025 4:07 PM

If you go to no wake, it should be for everyone, not just certain size boats.

4/16/2025 4:06 PM

The lake is increasingly being used by inexperienced boat renters or visitors that bring small self-propelled paddle boards and kayaks. For the safety of all, speeds should be reduced to no-wake.

4/16/2025 4:05 PM

We rented the end slip at Tower Marina for around 15 years. Our boat was damaged numerous times by being slammed into the dock by boat wakes. Boats have gotten bigger, heavier, and more powerful, thus making wakes that are far too dangerous in a small Lake Kalamazoo. We eventually sold our boat and bought another boat that we keep in Grand Haven on Spring Lake that enforces a no wake zone. I’m not the only large vessel owner who feels strongly about this issue.

4/16/2025 4:01 PM

None

4/16/2025 3:59 PM

No concerns as it is currently

4/16/2025 3:51 PM

No wake!!

4/16/2025 3:51 PM

Priority should be given to active boaters. Boats in slips are great for the users and marinas but should not impose on navigable waters. Putting unnecessary restrictions on boaters to increase the value received by none tax paying seasonal visitors is wrong.

4/16/2025 3:51 PM

One concern for safety with the wakes is while getting fuel at Sergeants

4/16/2025 3:43 PM

The sailing school dominates the lake everyday. Always dodging kids in boats

4/16/2025 3:40 PM

Na

4/16/2025 3:36 PM

23 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 240

Na

4/16/2025 3:35 PM

I live in the lake near Sergeants Marina. I see no reason to make any changes to the regulations.

4/16/2025 3:33 PM

I see on some smaller self drive boat rentals, passengers are not wearing life vests.

4/16/2025 3:29 PM

The lake should be No Wake all the time. As a teenager we would occasionally ski on the lake. Now it's way too crowded with boat types that didn't exist 20-30 years ago.

4/16/2025 3:26 PM

The huge increase in rental boat businesses over the past 10 years, has resulted in a mob of inexperienced and dangerous boats flooding the Kalamazoo river every weekend. Rental businesses should require boating safety course basics before renting boats. Most of these people do not even understand the basic notion to stay out of boats way that are larger than them, stay close to the shore, and be aware of what’s going on around you.

4/16/2025 3:26 PM

None

4/16/2025 3:24 PM

I launch at Shultz park this will drastically increase boating time to reach Lake Michigan

4/16/2025 3:19 PM

None

4/16/2025 3:11 PM

Limiting overnight anchoring where Lake KZoo becomes the channel. Can be extremely difficult navigation through the anchor lines when there are a lot of boats anchored. Rental boats are the biggest hazard as they have no clue what they’re doing and don’t know safety regulations.

4/16/2025 3:08 PM

No wake is desperately needed for safety

4/16/2025 2:53 PM

I would like there to to be a plan to ensure safe water depths while lake levels fluctuate

4/16/2025 2:52 PM

Please make it all “No Wake”. I’m a lifelong Saugatuck/Douglas boater and there is zero need to create a wake in what little open water exists in Lake Kalamazoo. It’s too small to safely tube or waterski. More importantly, at most, the time saved by going fast from one side of the lake to another is just a few minutes. It’s crazy that a single boat is allowed to rock hundreds of boats for his/her brief amusement.

4/16/2025 2:51 PM

We have had a boat in Saugatuck since 1973. Been at Sergeants marina since 1980 and owner of 2 slips since 1987. The wakes have been an occasional problem as long as we have been there. It has escalated in the last 5 or 6 years with the increase in size of boats, rental boats and number of boats. There are times it is not safe to try to get on and off docked boats. We have had dockmates go home because the constant motion lead to sea sickness. We have a fuel dock and it is totally unsafe for our employees to be leaning down or sitting on the dock to accommodate fueling smaller vessels. The rocking and rolling has also increased the possibility of a fuel spill. Kalamazoo lake us a small body of water and in our extensive cruising in Lake Michigan have never been in a port with a no wake zone as lack as Saugatucks. We gave had damage to our boat in the past. There was no point in reporting it as the boats were outside the no wake zone. I very strongly recommend the entire lake be designated a no wake zone before a serious accident happens.

4/16/2025 2:50 PM

There are boats constantly using the eiver and creating wakes. And it seems there is very little enforcement. I don’t know how many times people at our marina get their boats bounced around and we are yelling no wake. By making the Kzoo lake and river all no wake then maybe we can eliminate these problems.

4/16/2025 2:49 PM

This is a tough issue because the safety and comfort of many are disrupted by a select few. Boaters are responsible for their own wake and how that wake affects others. But like many other issues that only works if those causing the wakes cared. I feel that the entire lake should become a no wake zone. That will reduce wake related issues and keep dangerous speeds down at night

4/16/2025 2:46 PM

None.

4/16/2025 2:45 PM

Freedom on lake is adequately restricted now

4/16/2025 2:42 PM

Current rules must be strongly enforced...if not coincidences people won't follow.

4/16/2025 2:33 PM

Lake Macatawa expanded no wake rules and it is much safer to be on slower vessels. We own a large boat so it is no wake for entire lake. But we don’t mind because watching near misses between other boats is not good.

4/16/2025 2:33 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 259

I thought it was already no wake for >26ft. The current regulations are fine. No need to change.

4/16/2025 2:26 PM

Boating police do not pay attention to drunk boaters or dinghies that do not travel in a direct line and make it dangerous for other boaters, nor do they pull over pontoons or other boats that are above occupancy limits. These things are extremely important and all that I see the police doing is checking fire extinguishers. Stop wasting taxpayer money on vessel checks and go after the party boats.

4/16/2025 2:23 PM

More Boeys for shallow areas

4/16/2025 2:22 PM

There is absolutely no rationale for allowing power boats that are designed to generate wake for wakeboarding and wake surfing to have their wake generating capabilities activated on Kalamazoo Lake; the waterway is no where near adequately large to absorb the wake energy before the waves strike boats that are moored, not only causing damage, but risking injury to anyone on a docked vessel.

4/16/2025 2:22 PM

I believe your policies are fine the way they are, the DNR & Sheriff already does an excellent job!

4/16/2025 2:19 PM

You should not be in a hurry when you are on the boat anyway, relax. Also, having the fuel dock board ring the lake causes lot of error for spills. You have a lot of community tax payers with boats on the water, that also are inhibited by enjoying their space when people are making lots of wake in the lake. This also causes damage to boats at marinas, not to mention people boarding and exiting their boats on the lake.

4/16/2025 2:14 PM

Paddle Boarders and kayakers need to yield and move over to boats in the channel. Often there will be a group of 5 or more side by side not allowing anyone to pass them.

4/16/2025 2:03 PM

Most of the safety concerns that I have seen are due to rentals to inexperienced voters.

4/16/2025 2:01 PM

Difference of opinion by law enforcement on no wake.

4/16/2025 1:59 PM

Kalamazoo Lake is really very small for recreational use but if people want to tube or ski in a small circle I'm not against it. I do like it that if I want to get across it quickly I can go at wake speed. I am OK with restricting large wake production that comes from larger boats and wake boats.

4/16/2025 1:58 PM

For heavens sake why are there not solar panels (or something like that) to light up the bogeys in the water to see how to get back in from Lake Michigan at night? Even if they are super dim, just something so we can see how to navigate in the dark?

4/16/2025 1:58 PM

Fix the size of the boat and that will fix a lot of the issues.

4/16/2025 1:55 PM

I am a "live aboard" during the summer season so I am at the lake every morning and evening and full time on the weekends. It should be noted that there is very little to no tubing or waterskiing taking place on the lake so the impact to these water sports would be minimal. Additional travel times across the lake due to a no wake zone would add less than 5 minutes to a trip and it already takes 20 to 30 minutes to get out to Lake Michigan so adding less than 5 minutes is meaningless. Furthermore, it is the "powering up" and "powering down" when boats enter the lake that creates the largest wake!

4/16/2025 1:53 PM

Enforcing appropriate lighting on boats that are anchored, minimizing flood light use on boats at night. Suggest also look at the use of the tender docks as people leave their boats there for the weekend including overnight.

4/16/2025 1:52 PM

None

4/16/2025 1:52 PM

Leave the boaters alone and stay out of boating.

4/16/2025 1:51 PM

I think the signage for the start and stop of the no wake areas is really confusing. Can signage be improved somehow?

4/16/2025 1:50 PM

No wake zone and noise ordinance on Kalamazoo River. Both need to be unforced, please.

4/16/2025 1:48 PM

Signage at boat launch(s) and bridge supports asking for common sense courtesy. Boaters owning or renting slips are not the problem, its visitors who launch.

4/16/2025 1:44 PM

Limit anchoring in Kalamazoo Lake

4/16/2025 1:44 PM

No

4/16/2025 1:41 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 280

Knowledge of the SYC race programs race days to limit the amount of boaters going into the middle of their races.

4/16/2025 1:39 PM

Silver Lake is too narrow for wake boarding. Damage to boats and docks happens frequently.

4/16/2025 1:35 PM

With the low water levels this will also aid in limiting damage to many vessels whose captains are unfamiliar with the extremely shallow center of the lake. Many vessels will run aground and slower speeds equal lesser damages.

4/16/2025 1:28 PM

Obey current restrictions!

4/16/2025 1:25 PM

The usable area for water sports does not seem large enough to support wake boarding and tubing. Especially with the slower boats navigating through to the inlet.

4/16/2025 1:22 PM

The whole Kalamazoo Lake should be no wake! People have no consideration for the safety of others. We own a slip and the waves at times are uncontrollable! The gas dock at Sergeants Marina is very dangerous at times with the waves of inconsiderate drivers!

4/16/2025 1:21 PM

The lake needs to be dredged especially when the water is low like it is currently.

4/16/2025 1:17 PM

The entire area between the two bridges needs to be no wake. I have a dock finger in this area and boats from both directions speed by. It’s unsafe for me as the waves are so bad I lose my balance on the boat and my boat hits the finger with force. These people don’t care. I yell at them and they ignore. Never see an officer in this area. The Shultz park boat ramp produces many offenders as well as those coming from the lake east going west. We’ve asked for years for the no wake zone and nobody in an official capacity does anything. The sheriff just laughed when I asked, not that he doesn’t care but good luck.

4/16/2025 1:12 PM

Businesses that rent boats to the public need to do a better job at informing every renter what the no wake rules are.

4/16/2025 12:59 PM

Get rid of the rental boats. They have no idea of the rules of the high seas. The rentals create so much more chaos.

4/16/2025 12:52 PM

Boats should not be allowed to anchor near the entrance from the lake to the river.

4/16/2025 12:44 PM

The number of boats allowed to tie up in channel area reducing the space for boats to pass by, especially by ship and shore hotel. Very large yachts not paying for a slip instead just tying up to each other and making it very narrow through there.

4/16/2025 12:39 PM

There are plenty of police in area.

4/16/2025 12:38 PM

The wake made by boaters in the Kalamazoo Lake area causes a lot of rocking to boats docked along Singapore Yacht Club and Sergeants. I would like to see that area be a no wake zone.

4/16/2025 12:38 PM

No

4/16/2025 12:28 PM

One of the larger concerns is rental boat operators not being familiar with boating laws in general. They regularly do not follow the "rules of the road" and are a much bigger safety hazard. Additionally, many boaters learn the schedule of the Allegan County Sheriff and clearly break the law when they know the sheriff boat is not on duty.

4/16/2025 12:27 PM

Boating while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a problem as it is clearly visible from the shore and from other watercraft. Additionally, public urination from watercraft is also seen and is a violation of many laws. Speed, substance use/abuse ENFORCEMENT IS NEEDED for safety and indecent exposure should never be allowed.

4/16/2025 12:26 PM

Limit boat size at dinghy dock

4/16/2025 12:21 PM

Ban wake boats. They are damaging the shoreline.

4/16/2025 12:20 PM

Those of us who go upstream are facing so many no wake zones that recreational boating has become too restrictive.

4/16/2025 12:17 PM

Safety must be first; the no-wake zone is needed to keep everyone safe. I am always concerned about the fueling activities at Sergeants with the wake zone. I have seen near misses of boaters almost colliding and also concerns about the safety of the ONLY place in town that we can obtain fuel. The protection of their personnel getting on and off boats to fuel

4/16/2025 12:13 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations is dangerous. We have seen Wake come on the swim platform while fueling, making the back of the boat a dangerous spot. 301

More signage and markers. Perhaps depth markers for the very shallow parts of the lake?

4/16/2025 12:09 PM

I've lived on another lake that had a no wake rule before 11am and after 6 or 7 pm. This worked great as all types of boaters had use of the lake for their size and purpose. The rules were regulated and enforced, and worked very well.

4/16/2025 12:06 PM

None

4/16/2025 12:06 PM

Our permanent home is located right across the river from the ramp at Schultz Park. Our dock system is directly across from the Scultz Park ramp. Boaters speed to get to the ramp first and we have had so many “near misses’ from other boats disregarding our attempts to back out of our dock. Our associates has begged you for years to mark this area a “no wake zone” to no avail.

4/16/2025 12:02 PM

Extend No Wake Zone to protect boat launch/Red Dock area and to better protect marinadocked boats.

4/16/2025 12:02 PM

To many rental boats who don't know the rules of the water. It has become very dangerous since the boat rental business has increased. More information for the rental companies regarding safety. They need to have a map on rental boats of buoy location and depth of water. Many times rental boats become dangerous as they don't know the river.

4/16/2025 11:46 AM

None.

4/16/2025 11:41 AM

Recreational opportunities drop in relation to boater density.

4/16/2025 11:40 AM

None

4/16/2025 11:39 AM

Boaters usually disregard the wake rules near the bridge coming into Lake Kalamazoo from the Douglas area. At least 25% of the boaters come out of the bridge and go full throttle in the wake zone. Please do something.

4/16/2025 11:36 AM

Thank you for considering this. I’ve seen multiple times where wakes have caused confusion and potential harm. If it does not change, we need significantly better signage to show what is and is not a wake zone.

4/16/2025 11:35 AM

Have none

4/16/2025 11:33 AM

Better regulation of rental boats. Have Allegan County Sheriff team pull over big boats when they are driving recklessly and creating wake. We have been in situations and they have told us they do not pull over the big boats. We have seen situations where big boats are going faster than the smaller boats and a smaller boat is pulled over while the big boat is ignored.

4/16/2025 11:26 AM

I have been boating on Kalamazoo Lake for over 50 years and never had an issue with people taking advantage of the wake zone. I feel there are enough State Patrols monitoring the situation especially during peek season. They do an excellent job enforcing the rules and regulations of the water. When the big lake is rough, it’s nice to have Lake Kalamazoo as an outlet for water sports, such as tubing and water skiing. It would be a shame to see the entire lake being a no wake zone. It already takes an hour to get to Lake Michigan from where our boat is docked and if it was no wake zone, it would take another half hour. I strongly oppose to having a no wake zone

4/16/2025 11:21 AM

I strongly support the enforcement of no wake zone on the entire lake. With the variety of watercraft that share that water it is not safe for anyone have boats going at high speed. Water skiing, wakeboarding, etc. can happen on the big lake or go to an actual inland lake, not a wide spot on the river.

4/16/2025 11:17 AM

The current no wake zones to get to silver lake make no sense from KZOO lake and up the river. Those no wake zones up river should be removed.

4/16/2025 11:16 AM

No more regulations. Please!

4/16/2025 11:13 AM

Make sure it is clear to boat and deep enough.

4/16/2025 11:04 AM

There needs to be no-wake zones on the Kalamazoo River east of town (in the Township). We live on the river and boaters roar by, contributing to erosion.

4/16/2025 11:04 AM

My main concern is making sure boats are going super fast between Blue Star and 196

4/16/2025 11:01 AM

27 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations bridges; I understand the want to go a little faster in areas on the other sides of those bridges. Smaller boats aren't nearly as big an issue as the bigger boats. 321

No wake should be expanded by Shultz Park and the I-196 Bridge.

4/16/2025 11:01 AM

Kalamazoo Lake is an extremely important boating asset. I grew up on Kazoo Lake, our family had a boat at Singapore Yacht Club, and my wife and I had a slip at Singapore for 20 years. Boat wakes were never a safety concern. NEVER! I am 100% OPPOSED to any changes to the no wake status. It’s especially important to have a place to teach young kids how to operate a boat, and Kazoo Lake is the perfect, and only place for that.

4/16/2025 11:01 AM

Increased signage for low water areas would be useful. Specifically, the route between the Blue Star bridge and the dinghy dock in Couglin Park.

4/16/2025 10:59 AM

Damage to other boats

4/16/2025 10:58 AM

Dredge the lake to make it deeper

4/16/2025 10:57 AM

Limit how many boats can be linked together, especially when they extend into the river. A great example: when there are 5 to 7 boats linked side-by-side and with multiple rows in front of the Barge and Ship N Shore. Barely enough room for two-way traffic.

4/16/2025 10:56 AM

There is no need to “hurry” anywhere if you are on a boat

4/16/2025 10:49 AM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations

Q14 Do you have any comments or suggestions regarding no-wake regulations? Answered: 322

Skipped: 446

RESPONSES

DATE

Simple bouys down the middle should do it

5/30/2025 12:00 PM

What is in place today is insufficient and not enforced. The harbor area is not suitable for high speed, as it is too damaging to all surrounding areas and other boating, kayaking, canoeing that is done in the area

5/30/2025 8:04 AM

Stop catering to the 1-2% of complainers and out of towners that want to change everything.

5/30/2025 6:52 AM

I strongly oppose!!!! This would NOT be a good thing!!!

5/29/2025 9:10 PM

I do not agree with it! If this passes then we are going to start having issues on Silver Lake. The problems going to be people won’t go to Lake Michigan, but they will come to Silver Lake instead. Silverlake is that big enough to support that many boats.

5/29/2025 8:47 PM

Make sure Buoy’s are in the correct place

5/29/2025 3:25 PM

Add more manpower to enforce the no wake rules already in place: ie, close to marinas

5/29/2025 12:29 PM

No

5/29/2025 11:13 AM

No…it’s properly regulated by the sheriff.

5/29/2025 9:00 AM

If anything the sheriff should enforce the no wake in the river more than they are currently.

5/29/2025 6:55 AM

I do not see that any changes are needed.

5/28/2025 11:05 PM

No

5/28/2025 10:54 PM

Let’s stop it!!!

5/28/2025 6:44 PM

No

5/28/2025 6:37 PM

No. It’s fine now and if expanded it would be an improvement

5/28/2025 6:31 PM

See last answers :) need a bit of sake or that is a loooong trip from silver lake to the big lake ha

5/28/2025 6:19 PM

Stop the Saugatuck micromanagement. This and the new STR restrictions are government overreach and will harm businesses in Saugatuck.

5/28/2025 5:49 PM

5/28/2025 4:49 PM

Na

5/28/2025 4:21 PM

Make it a total no-wake zone.

5/28/2025 4:10 PM

Unfortunately, it’s already hard to police and increasing no wake areas will be difficult to enforce.

5/28/2025 3:49 PM

The largest safety concerns are the Marinas and the red dock. Their is a Fuel dock on the lake that can see some issues with wakes as they are fueling or waste pump outs. This is a very important decision for the safety on the lake. If you timed it to cross the lake with a wake verses a no wake its about 4-5 min difference. Some traffic can save a life within 4-5 Min, something to think about?

5/28/2025 3:40 PM

See above. I support more enforcement. Really don’t think we need more regulation. Certainly don’t need an expanded SNW zone. Throw some cameras up if you really wanna know if there’s an issue. Don’t listen to old tottering squeeky wheels…or take their word for it without evidence. Be sure any actions taken do not make operations more unsafe for the Yacht Club sailing program, which is the most consistent user other than the Star of Saugatuck. And while

5/28/2025 3:18 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations I personally think the Lake is a lousy place for most tow sports, fairly low speed foiling (810mph) could easily be done without impact and should not be restricted. 24

no

5/28/2025 3:15 PM

Thank you for taking this on.

5/28/2025 2:36 PM

It is very dangerous with the way it is now! It needs to be no wake

5/28/2025 2:06 PM

I think the no wake areas were put in place when boats in the harbor were smaller and there were many less boats in the harbor. Times have changed. Boats are larger, heavier, and there are many more. The number of rental boats grows continuously. The majority of people operating them seem to have no knowledge of the rules of the road on the water.

5/28/2025 2:03 PM

No wake is best for everyone

5/28/2025 1:08 PM

Unless accident data shows a compelling reason including an upward trend, we should continue enforcing the regulations as they are today.

5/28/2025 1:06 PM

Make the whole lake no wake

5/28/2025 1:04 PM

Make it happen:)

5/28/2025 1:00 PM

Publicize the existing laws about limiting wakes around marinas.

5/28/2025 12:50 PM

In 24 years of boating on Lake Kalamazoo, I have never had a problem with wake related issues or incident.

5/28/2025 12:43 PM

The river is a recreational gift the citizens of Saugatuck and Douglas have enjoyed for a very long time. Boaters need to be safe and held accountable for their actions so everyone on the water can enjoy their chosen activity for years to come.

5/28/2025 12:38 PM

I appreciate your concern for boaters and non boaters safety. Many times inexperienced or "show off" boaters go fast, and cause a danger to themselves, others in small boats, and businesses that are on the water and are affected by wakes on their businesses, docks and clients. Thanks again!

5/28/2025 12:15 PM

No

5/28/2025 10:53 AM

No wake on the entire Kalamazoo lake.

5/27/2025 12:33 PM

No wake at all.

5/27/2025 7:44 AM

I think that all of Lake Kalamazoo should be no wake for all boats and jet skis.

5/26/2025 12:37 PM

No

5/26/2025 7:01 AM

Thank you

5/25/2025 8:13 AM

There should be more education of rules of the waterways. Every marina, boat rental and watersport provider should post these "good manners," customs, and laws. Specifically boat renters need to comply. Also the Allegan County marine patrol should be present and patrolling on the water Friday through Sunday during the "season."

5/17/2025 4:42 PM

I have never experienced any wake related problems in the 20 years. I’ve been using Lake Kalamazoo current restrictions are sufficient.

5/15/2025 10:20 AM

We need an active and KNOWLEDGEABLE Harbor Authority. Surveys like this can be misleading. opinion v knowledge. This harbor needs a lot more attention than just no wake

5/14/2025 3:53 PM

I have no concerns or suggestions. Keep it the same!

5/14/2025 3:37 PM

Disagree fully of a no wake on entire area. Boaters should have full use of the lake area for which ever boat they own. Common sense and number of boaters present limits speedy activities

5/11/2025 10:31 PM

Enforcement not removel

5/9/2025 7:59 AM

Enforcement will be important for the initial period as boaters understand what a no wake means with their vessel. Initial warnings by local law enforcement backed up by other boaters who can report violators will ultimately lead to everyone knowing the rules of the road.

5/6/2025 3:52 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 49

We really do not see a problem with boaters neglecting the no wake rules. Does it happen, yes, very rarely but don’t punish all of us for the ignorance of very few. Maybe post signs w/fines, and enforce those fines to stop it.

5/3/2025 8:28 AM

More police on the water.

4/30/2025 4:24 AM

Extend the SNW zone from Sergeants Marina further into Kal Lake if that marina is the one complaining of vessel damage. Otherwise, I do not see a need to limit anymore of the waterbody as it already takes forever to get through it.

4/29/2025 9:30 PM

Our children love tubing. We are always respectful of wake zones. We don’t think these restrictions are necessary. There is no other safe place for children to tube on the lake, as Lake Michigan is often too rough and our pontoon too small.

4/29/2025 7:17 PM

Enforce existing regulations, more boating restrictions is NOT the answer!!

4/29/2025 10:27 AM

I believe we should have the current wake laws enforced more vigorously. We should have the Sheriff department provide more resources directly on Lake Kalamazoo and the canal to enforce the current laws. I think putting forth an effort to educate the public on the current wake laws would be very helpful. More obvious and visible signage could be helpful. I live directly on Lake Kalamazoo where I own and dock a boat and have for the last 10 years. I enjoy watching the families that come to Saugatuck to participate in the water recreational activities we are so blessed to have. Every day in the summer I watch the boaters, tubers, jet skiers, paddle boarders, and kayakers. Even on days that are less than ideal, I see families out enjoying the water on Lake Kalamazoo because that is the time they have taken for their summer vacations and have chosen Saugatuck to bring their entertainment time and dollars to. I have even watched a float plane land on Lake Kalamazoo. I am a boater and an experienced kayaker myself. I have a good deal of kayaking and boating experience. I have kayaked for a week long trip in Canada and have kayaked in Valdez, Alaska. I am also trained in kayak rescue. I have seen and assisted kayakers on the canal going out to the big lake in trouble due to the normal big lake wave action and the traffic on the canal but I have never seen anyone have an issue on Lake Kalamazoo. There is already a large area that is a no wake zone and plenty of space for kayakers and paddle boarders if they are not comfortable with the wave action as more experienced are. Michigan Law already states that there is to be no wake 100 feet from any boat dock, etc. Let's enforce the current no wake law for the safety of those boats docked along the shore and protecting safe areas for kayakers and paddle boarders. Let's educate boaters about that law before making more laws that are just as challenging to enforce. In addition there is a bill (HB 5532) in our state legislature that has been proposed but not passed yet prohibiting wake boarding within 500 feet of any dock and must have 20 feet of depth. I think Lake Kalamazoo is too small for any wake boarding activities and I have never seen any wake boarding activity on Lake Kalamazoo. But I would support a restriction on sport wake boarding, but am strongly opposed to additional total ban on wakes on Lake Kalamazoo. We must continue to encourage tourism in our town as it is our only industry. Making the whole lake a no wake would send the families that come in the summer to Saugatuck elsewhere.

4/28/2025 11:00 AM

I don’t have an issue, keeping them exactly the way they are

4/27/2025 8:13 PM

Leave it alone

4/27/2025 6:21 PM

No

4/27/2025 11:26 AM

There is more than enough

4/26/2025 5:21 PM

Wake boats are designed to create a huge wake and need to be addressed at the state level.

4/25/2025 12:49 PM

Fisherman in the early morning constantly violate the no wake zone and rock the boats slipped between their slips and the Sergeants gas dock

4/25/2025 7:28 AM

No

4/24/2025 8:43 PM

I slip in Holland but spend a lot of time in Saugatuck. Been boating for the past 20 years there. I feel the no wake should be expanded to anything on the saugatuck side of the Blue Star bridge. With all the docks and the shallowness of the lake. I’ve been tossed into the dock quite a few times while at the shoppers dock or at Red Dock. Also with all the anchoring watercraft, there’s not much room to maneuver.

4/22/2025 3:28 PM

there have been studies that show that wakes don’t effect the environment of safety

4/21/2025 7:20 PM

Loosen the regulations not strengthen!

4/21/2025 7:20 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 65

You should look at the recent changes made on Lake Macatawa. Where the entire lake is no wake within 300’ of the shoreline. That could be a good alternative for the small boats to still have a path through the middle of Kalamazoo Lake and then restricting the entire lake to no wake for vessels 26’ and over. Food for thought

4/21/2025 4:36 PM

See previous comment. There is far too much no wake area.

4/21/2025 3:43 PM

Based on question 12 - If we want more and better enforcement, then we're going to need to pony up and pay for more patrols. I think our law enforcement is spread too thin for the things they have to deal with and the extras the people demand of them. And if we do this, then who exactly will pay for it? Maybe it should be those in the marinas, and not necessarily John Q Taxpayer on Main Street. I've boated Saugatuck for over 30 years, and don't recall hearing about a single significant event caused by wake from Kalamazoo Lake. The biggest thing that's happened was a drunk guy rant into the bridge years ago, and that was at night. My other concern is I know Lake Kalamazoo is split between two different local jurisdictions. From what the DNR has said, both would have to agree on this. If they don't, how do you propose splitting the Lake? The DNR also said it's near impossible to reverse such regulations when put into place, and the guy in Lansing has said it's only happened once he knows of, and that took years to change.

4/21/2025 3:19 PM

Please don't add anymore regulations.

4/21/2025 2:46 PM

More signs. Include the fees.

4/21/2025 10:21 AM

The lake is too small and too busy to allow full-speed boating. It is not just a safety risk for marinas but also for canoes, paddleboards, and the small sailboats the yacht club uses. Low water levels have also made the useable area of the lake even smaller which exacerbates the problem.

4/21/2025 7:51 AM

No, just that I oppose a blanket ruling as it already is such a long drive to Lake Michigan

4/20/2025 10:27 PM

Enforce them

4/20/2025 11:29 AM

No

4/20/2025 10:32 AM

Stop taking my rights away

4/20/2025 7:32 AM

I thought Kal Lake was already no wake for vessels over 26'. I always observe no wake in my 27' boat. I also have a whaler (11') I do get on plane to cross Kal Lake in that. I would be in favor of no wake for 26' and larger and strict enforcement of this. There are a few bad actors w big boats ripping around. give them hefty tickets.

4/20/2025 12:46 AM

One consideration for the survey is the Freedom Boat Club. I responded that I do not own a boat, since I do not. I am a member of the Boat Club, though, and use the lake very regularly throughout the summer.

4/19/2025 8:41 PM

Refs are good. Enforce them

4/19/2025 6:50 PM

More wide-spread no wake areas. Enforce!!!!!!

4/19/2025 4:45 PM

We already have the regulations that would protect boats in slips in the lake. They need to be enforced.

4/19/2025 2:05 PM

I live on the Kalamazoo River across from Oxbow, so I am more familiar with the issues we have further down the river. Overall, when boaters get to that point, the no-wake rule on the river is not honored or regulated by my home/dock. Perhaps this is because boaters are further away from Kalamazoo lake and there is very little enforcement for most of the year, but we are for making the entire Kalamazoo a no-wake zone and keeping just the big water (Lake Michigan) the wake zone. It is so bad that most homes are required to have a sea wall to protect from erosion and our boats on lifts and in the water and jostled around by the wake of boats flying up and down the river at all times of the day.

4/19/2025 11:13 AM

No wait at the gas dock

4/19/2025 8:50 AM

Needs enforcement of current regulations more than just Saturday and Sunday

4/19/2025 7:33 AM

Leave things as they are

4/18/2025 11:25 PM

spend your efforts in more important areas. change will hurt the majority that do it right and change will also hurt tourism

4/18/2025 11:25 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 85

none required

4/18/2025 11:21 PM

ok as is

4/18/2025 11:16 PM

no changes needed

4/18/2025 11:12 PM

focus on the few that cause the problems vs taking the rights away from the 99% that follow the common sense rules

4/18/2025 11:03 PM

Wakes have NEVER ONCE been an issue in 20 years of boating on lake Kalamazoo

4/18/2025 8:46 PM

No wake needs enforcing

4/18/2025 6:23 PM

Wake boats are designed to make huge damaging wakes and need to be address seperately from normal boats/boaters. Need law at state level to address this

4/18/2025 4:29 PM

No wake regulations used to be enforced more. Should be more restrictive and enforced more on all boats regardless of size on Kalamazoo Lake. Boaters wanting to speed and ski have the option to do it on Lake Michigan where wakes are not dangerous to others. Boats tied up in marinas suffer damages from the constant wakes. And it is more difficult to board boats while there are wakes especially for seniors and disabled persons.

4/18/2025 3:51 PM

No

4/18/2025 2:21 PM

the people who know the rules aren't the problem, enforce the laws

4/18/2025 2:00 PM

As a sailing instructor who spends 30+ hours on the river each week during the summer I have seen that the current no wake area is large enough. It would take away by limiting wake completely and make sailing more dangerous as it would be harder to help

4/18/2025 1:13 PM

Enforcement will be the big issue, we need more marine patrol. All vessels should be forced to follow no wake rules (including the Star of Saougatuck!!). Convenience of boaters to get out to and in from the lake should not preclude safety. Post signs (and law enforcement discuss with) those businesses that offer boat rentals to ensure they are made aware of the no-wake restrictions.

4/18/2025 1:07 PM

address the specialized wake boats that are made to put out a huge wake

4/18/2025 12:24 PM

Leave it how it is

4/18/2025 11:04 AM

See above.

4/18/2025 9:20 AM

no change needed

4/18/2025 8:35 AM

No additional regulations are needed.

4/18/2025 7:59 AM

Boat wakes on Lake Kalamazoo pose more than safety issues. They also pose an issue at fuel docks and public docks. Large and/or excessive amounts of wakes make it difficult to tie up and can damage rub rails around boat decks.

4/18/2025 7:57 AM

I will work hard to vote anyone out of office who votes "YES" for this proposal

4/18/2025 7:52 AM

no

4/18/2025 7:12 AM

the way it is sems to work with exception of wake boats could be addressed

4/18/2025 4:16 AM

ok as they exist, wake boats should be addressed as the only change needed.

4/18/2025 4:03 AM

I’m curious how the low water level effects wake and possible problems in marinas etc.

4/17/2025 11:13 PM

Common sense should prevail here. 26 feet and up should be no wake. Michigan already has laws covering most other situations. These just need to be enforced. I have been crossing Lake Michigan to come to Saugatuck for 20 years. I generally anchor in Kalamazoo lake. This isn’t a huge problem. Additional patrols and education would likely achieve the desired results. I am not a fan of ticketing offenders unless they are belligerent.

4/17/2025 9:08 PM

Stop the government intrusion. Saugatuck is killing Saugatuck.

4/17/2025 7:09 PM

na

4/17/2025 6:12 PM

Large boats 30’ and above seem to not follow no wake speeds/wake as well not give other boats space when in busy channel lanes.

4/17/2025 3:58 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 112

No

4/17/2025 3:08 PM

I like it the way it is now and has always been.

4/17/2025 2:59 PM

We do not need additional no-wake regulations.

4/17/2025 2:14 PM

Enforce them better

4/17/2025 2:02 PM

Must be 100’ from a dock would solve much of this but Sheriff water patrol isn’t willing to enforce this part of MI law! Change this first!!

4/17/2025 1:29 PM

Strictly enforce them

4/17/2025 1:27 PM

Please make all of the Kalamazoo river no wake!

4/17/2025 1:20 PM

No wake generating vessels

4/17/2025 12:55 PM

They're ok in the right situation but steer clear of overreach. Just not worth it.

4/17/2025 11:48 AM

The number of boats that violate the existing no wake zones during the shoulder seasons is high.

4/17/2025 11:31 AM

This issue seems like a solution looking for a problem. I have docked my boat on Lake Kalamazoo for years and believe establishing a no-wake zone over the entire lake may be overkill based on the grievances of a few.

4/17/2025 11:10 AM

I strongly support no-wake for the entire lake. I've been boating in Saugatuck for over 15 years and (maybe due to lower water levels in the past), wake was never really an issue. If someone sped up across the lake for passing, not that huge of a deal, but people now regularly tube or, even worse, wake board in the lake, causing the literally 100s of boats at marinas to smash against the docks. Makes it hard for us to want to stay for the weekend sometimes. So many boats last year regularly wove in and out of the bouys and cut off boats navigating that it was just ridiculous and terribly dangerous! The sheriff and other enforcement is stretched thin, so we appreciate what they do, but there's no way they can see all the danger that is out there with wake being allowed.

4/17/2025 10:31 AM

I am strongly opposed to the no wake zone. It is not necessary as we have been boating on Lake Kalamazoo for over 40 years. The state troopers monitor the area very well. No need to make the entire lake a no wake zone.

4/17/2025 10:19 AM

I understand why there'd be a no wake for Goshorn lake but making The Kalamazoo all nowake would be silly.

4/17/2025 9:55 AM

There should not be wakeboarding tubing allowed before 9 AM or after 7 PM.

4/17/2025 9:21 AM

Ban wake board boats, post signs at launch ramps so people know

4/17/2025 9:07 AM

Nope

4/17/2025 9:04 AM

n/a

4/17/2025 8:57 AM

The no wake zones are ready not enforced, and the ones we have are sufficient. It already takes a half hour to get to the lake from Shultz park. This would only "help" those that can afford a slip.

4/17/2025 8:47 AM

I have had a boat at Singapore Yacht Club for years. I have seen many instances of wakes causing falls of people standing on boats or entering or getting off boats. There has also been damage to boats from wakes crashing into pilings.

4/17/2025 8:40 AM

Just to get them in place to limit damage and safety concerns.

4/17/2025 8:33 AM

I don't think that the Kalamazoo Lake needs to move quite a slow as going down the channel to get out to Lake michigan. I don't think that pace is necessary for safety

4/17/2025 8:24 AM

Please leave it as it is…..

4/17/2025 8:16 AM

As above

4/17/2025 8:08 AM

see above

4/17/2025 8:01 AM

I am very happy to see this finally being discussed/addressed. The damage and risk with the lack of no-wake zones is extreme.

4/17/2025 7:28 AM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 138

The no wake should extend east uo the river . Aluminum fidhing boats are guilty of speeding past residents homes along the river and kayakers. There is little enforcement east of the 196 bridge.

4/17/2025 7:22 AM

Holiday weekends should be NO WAKES ZONES ON ALL OF KALAMAZOO LAKE. FRIDAY TO MONDAY.

4/17/2025 6:53 AM

At the very least, we need more enforcement of no-wake rules in Kalamazoo Lake.

4/17/2025 6:18 AM

My feeling is that the Kalamazoo Lake, from the bridge to the pier-head on Lake Michigan should be a no-wake zone, and enforcement activities increased for violators.

4/17/2025 6:11 AM

Up river no wake more, by each bridge and up river more.

4/17/2025 4:44 AM

Smaller boats and dingys should be exempt but boats over 25 foot should be enforced no wake.

4/17/2025 2:47 AM

More enforcement and educating rental boats

4/17/2025 12:24 AM

No

4/16/2025 11:14 PM

Noise produced by wave runners, in addition to safety issues.

4/16/2025 11:07 PM

no

4/16/2025 11:04 PM

Leave well enough alone and more patrol.

4/16/2025 11:00 PM

Lake Kalamazoo is a fantastic place to ski/wakeboard or tube during non peak times. I fully understand the desire to increase safety and regulate the no wake situation a bit. But completely eliminating it would be a detriment.

4/16/2025 10:48 PM

No wakeboarding, water skiing or tubing. They can go to silver lake or lake mi.

4/16/2025 10:38 PM

Lake Macatawa in Holland is a lot larger and they have large no wake zones! Kalamazoo Lake needs to be made a no wake lake before someone is hurt or even killed.

4/16/2025 10:33 PM

see above

4/16/2025 10:15 PM

I believe it should be no wake because it is confusing for all the rental boat people, they aren’t sure if the no wake is before or after the bouys! The non boaters renting pontoon boats are really the biggest problem with safety,and wakes in the no wake zones,we see over and over and over again

4/16/2025 10:15 PM

Love seeing all the young sailor’s from the SYC and their coaches out there, they follow the rules and should be exempt from any new regulations

4/16/2025 9:54 PM

only for over 28 feet

4/16/2025 9:34 PM

NO

4/16/2025 9:28 PM

For the safety of the people that live on there boats in that area. No wake zone should be for the whole lake. People have to be responsible for their wakes and they do not do that cause the wakes keep rolling in. There are a lot of elderly people that live on their boats and on week ends it is very dangerous.

4/16/2025 9:16 PM

No wake zones keep the soil around the river banks from eroding

4/16/2025 9:15 PM

Do better with with to tools you already have in place

4/16/2025 9:15 PM

There are simply too many boats in a small area to allow wakes. Docked boats are constantly getting rocked, sometimes violently. K-Zoo "Lake" is really just a wide portion of the river and there are too many inexperienced recreational boats out there. Surprised there aren't more serious accidents. Much easier to enforce no wake everywhere than segmenting it. Limited times would be a fiasco and so difficult to enforce.

4/16/2025 9:12 PM

Put it in place and enforce it!!!

4/16/2025 9:08 PM

Fine as is

4/16/2025 9:04 PM

The whole purpose of Saugatuck is for tourism etc, please don’t change something that works

4/16/2025 9:03 PM

Need to be clarified and enforced.

4/16/2025 8:49 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 165

Just stop…. This community is rediculous about all their politics…it’s exhausting… We’re just going to start voting you out.

4/16/2025 8:47 PM

Licensed boaters only!!

4/16/2025 8:45 PM

The current configuration is worth saving. With changes in boats and people a size and horsepower limitations is in order and as a courtesy to the slip holders I can agree with time limits. This would also improve safety. Wakeboarding does not belong here as the body of water is too small. To remove the area completely creates a safety hazard. This is where I as well as many other youth of the area learned to boat. The big lake is not a place for kids even on a calm day. There is a middle ground but it does require consistent enforcement to be effective.

4/16/2025 8:44 PM

No Wake zone anywhere near Red Dock.

4/16/2025 8:37 PM

Leave as is.

4/16/2025 8:30 PM

Restricting the size of the boat. Restricting boat rentals to keep their customers no-wake. Maybe a fine for the rental companies who’s customers break the rules

4/16/2025 8:22 PM

The more restrictive, the better for all.

4/16/2025 8:20 PM

No Wake

4/16/2025 8:02 PM

Again, there is no one to patrol and enforce these regulations or very rarely are they out there or at the right spot at the right time, almost never.

4/16/2025 8:00 PM

It's a larger area for water sports. I don't think making it a no wake zone is necessary and limits activities.

4/16/2025 7:54 PM

I think putting some gentle reminders to keep wakes in the middle of the lake would be enough to curb the wakes near the slips or houses.

4/16/2025 7:50 PM

Expanding the areas around the marinas is enough. Don't put a limit on when people can enjoy the water

4/16/2025 7:31 PM

None

4/16/2025 7:30 PM

It should be no wake. Also idiots from out of town constantly try to cross the bay in the center running aground.

4/16/2025 7:27 PM

Leave it how it is been this way for a long time no need for change because people don’t want to rock on their boats people want to boat let them boat

4/16/2025 7:26 PM

We need a wider no-wake zone or much better enforcement. I wonder how many boat renters know what a no-wake zone is.

4/16/2025 7:19 PM

Let it be.

4/16/2025 7:04 PM

I believe temporarily no wake sounds if the river is a certain height other than that, this is absolutely ridiculous. There is no support that you have multiple injuries because of high speed bigger focus should be roundabout accidents four-way, accidents that occur because of makeshift walkways in downtown Saugatuck example no signage whatsoever that you have to stop at a painted white line crosswalk that’s a bigger issue than a no wake zone!

4/16/2025 7:00 PM

No

4/16/2025 6:56 PM

According to state laws, once you determine a body of water nowake, you cannot retract the law.

4/16/2025 6:54 PM

There has been damage to boats and docks do to Wales from boats. It is not always reported because if you don’t have the MC numbers nothing can be done.

4/16/2025 6:39 PM

Enforce existing

4/16/2025 6:26 PM

None

4/16/2025 6:19 PM

Too much activity in lake for NO WAKE to be eliminated!!!

4/16/2025 6:17 PM

I look forward to a safer Kalamazoo Lake !

4/16/2025 6:15 PM

There's always going to be some one complaining. I just did!

4/16/2025 6:07 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 191

If you live near an airport, you expect to hear airplane noise, You live next to a railroad you expect to hear a railroad noise, if you live next to a lake, you expect to hear boat noise and have occasional waves

4/16/2025 5:59 PM

The current restrictions are appropriate in our opinion.

4/16/2025 5:52 PM

It takes a long time to get from Douglas to the Cove or big Lake. Having an unrestricted channel through the K Lake makes it shorter.

4/16/2025 5:44 PM

No

4/16/2025 5:43 PM

Current no wake zones are fine. No need to change them. People will complain no matter what you do.

4/16/2025 5:38 PM

I feel the no wake regulations are already very strictly enforced. I don’t see number of passengers or drinking enforced nearly as much as no wake. Also think shallow parts of lake Kalamazoo should be clearly marked.

4/16/2025 5:30 PM

The lake is too shallow for unlimited removal of no wake

4/16/2025 5:23 PM

It’s not good for the boat engines to Run at idle all the time

4/16/2025 5:23 PM

No

4/16/2025 5:21 PM

Whatever is done, provide adequate resources for enforcement

4/16/2025 5:16 PM

Safety is always number one so whatever can be done to improve it I'm all for.

4/16/2025 5:04 PM

It's no fun at idle speed. It currently takes 45 minutes to get to lake Michigan. It's terrible and it doesn't need to be this way. Please loosen up the current restrictions and definitely don't add more idle speed area. AND if you can't prove you own a boat, you shouldn't get a vote in the matter!!

4/16/2025 5:02 PM

See above

4/16/2025 4:58 PM

This looks like a grab by wealth individuals to limit access to the lake. I have had a sailboat on the lake for 15 years several of them on the floating docks at Tower. Individuals complaining about wake damage are likely new to boating and are lacking basic seamanship. They may need to take a course or two to learn how to properly dock and secure there vessels.

4/16/2025 4:58 PM

I feel bad for boaters being pushed out to the lake only for no wake but some day the consequences of not doing it could end up being extremely serious.

4/16/2025 4:52 PM

Leave as is for boats under 25 ft

4/16/2025 4:48 PM

Commercial fishing boat disregard no wake rules all the time. Just saying.

4/16/2025 4:43 PM

I think the key with any rules how are you going to enforce it?

4/16/2025 4:41 PM

Like the idea of no-wake for all of the Kalamazoo River

4/16/2025 4:40 PM

Eliminate the no wake zones. Eliminate the Karen's. Fuck this town, it sold its soul.

4/16/2025 4:37 PM

Leave as it.

4/16/2025 4:37 PM

None

4/16/2025 4:36 PM

Kalamazoo Lake, with it's irregular and sometimes shallow depths, doesn't seem an appropriate lake for speed boat use (skiing, wake boarding, tubing, etc.). For a smallish cruising boat, it can be frightening not to know if they will stop or swerve suddenly while towing a person. Is there any way to direct recreational uses towards Silver Lake or Lake Michigan?

4/16/2025 4:34 PM

No

4/16/2025 4:34 PM

I think the current no wake areas are adequate. Maybe opening it up a bit closer to the blue star bridge when going back to the boat launch at Schultz. Quite a long section that seems un needed

4/16/2025 4:33 PM

Very simple: Enforce the laws already in place

4/16/2025 4:32 PM

Our boat at Tower gets lots of waves from boats and it would be nice to stop this all together

4/16/2025 4:28 PM

Do not add restrictions

4/16/2025 4:27 PM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 219

None

4/16/2025 4:24 PM

No

4/16/2025 4:24 PM

Same response as question #13.

4/16/2025 4:20 PM

None

4/16/2025 4:20 PM

The current regulations seem sufficient. The portions of Lake K that are already designated as “no wake” zones extend far enough to adequately protect the shorelines.

4/16/2025 4:18 PM

enforce current laws

4/16/2025 4:16 PM

Question 5 did not allow multiple answers. We are also kayakers and boats are often disrespectful as they create wakes & drive too close to kayaks.

4/16/2025 4:16 PM

The wake area helps speed up getting to the lake. Without that you will have people pushing the wake on the whole river

4/16/2025 4:13 PM

NO MORE! enough is enough

4/16/2025 4:07 PM

Better and more consistent enforcement is necessary regardless of decision.

4/16/2025 4:06 PM

Kal Lake is more of a harbor than a lake and should be managed like a harbor. That means nowake throughout and increased mooring (mooring balls) to encourage transient boaters who will utilize local businesses during there travels.

4/16/2025 4:05 PM

The no-wake zone for Lake Kalamazoo is long overdue!

4/16/2025 4:01 PM

No

4/16/2025 3:59 PM

I am especially interested in no-wake regulations around marinas, including Saugatuck Yacht Club. The boats on the outside docks are regularly waked in a manner that’s potentially damaging to the boat and certainly uncomfortable for anyone on the boats. And there’s no reason passing boats need to go fast in that area.

4/16/2025 3:54 PM

If it isn't broken don't try to fix it.

4/16/2025 3:51 PM

Make it safer for sailors and kayakers

4/16/2025 3:51 PM

There should be further reductions in regulations. The current no-wake zones are overly burdensome for all boaters.

4/16/2025 3:51 PM

What affect would making this a no-wake lake have on aquatic plants? Overgrowth being a concern.

4/16/2025 3:50 PM

Overdue

4/16/2025 3:40 PM

Na

4/16/2025 3:36 PM

Na

4/16/2025 3:35 PM

No Wake at All Times!

4/16/2025 3:34 PM

Don’t change them.

4/16/2025 3:33 PM

We transient in Saugatuck a few times a year. Even with the no wake zones today the lake gets rough and at times causes damage and issues to our boat when it is docked.

4/16/2025 3:29 PM

If a no wake zone is implemented or if there are restrictions to the hours for some recreational activities it will be important to publicize it adequately. Simply adding no wake signs and leaving it to boat owners to self police doesn't work well. There needs to be consistent monitoring by a body with authority in order for any regulation to be successful.

4/16/2025 3:29 PM

The lake should be no-wake--I have a planing powerboat and I would not care at all if this was all no wake. It would be so much more enjoyable if we could anchor or cruise the harbor and not have a 20' boat run right past with a huge wake.

4/16/2025 3:26 PM

Just as the rental business has exploded, the same inexperienced boaters, and new boaters since Covid are skiing tubing and running on plane in and out of navigable channel close to the Marina as if it’s a obstacle course. Very dangerous and sending 3 to 4 foot waves through the Marina on a regular basis. I have been there for 20 years and have never seen it this bad.

4/16/2025 3:26 PM

38 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 246

Don’t do it

4/16/2025 3:24 PM

Don’t do it!

4/16/2025 3:19 PM

As a local resident and regular user of Kalamazoo Lake, I am writing in opposition to the proposed "No Wake Zone." My family and I greatly enjoy taking our children tubing and participating in other recreational boating activities in this area. It’s one of the few accessible spots where families can safely enjoy watersports without needing to travel long distances or enter larger, rougher bodies of water. Adding a "No Wake Zone" would significantly limit the ability for families like ours to engage in these activities, which are not only a source of joy and bonding but also encourage outdoor recreation and responsible boating. We always prioritize safety and respect for other lake users, and we believe education and proper signage would be a more balanced approach than a blanket restriction. We ask that you consider the needs of families and recreational boaters who use the lake responsibly and ensure that Kalamazoo Lake remains a space where a variety of uses—tubing, fishing, kayaking, and more—can coexist. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input.

4/16/2025 3:11 PM

While I do see reason for some restriction, say for larger vessels. A wholesale wake restriction is absolutely unwarranted. Show me proof from the Sheriff or Coast Guard of any accidents or injuries that have happened on Kalamazoo Lake. I haven't heard of any...

4/16/2025 3:05 PM

Fine as is and sheriff/dnr officers are unnecessarily aggressive about enforcement to the point where it sometimes seems like harassment.

4/16/2025 3:02 PM

The wake caused by recreational boats is extreme for boats that are slipped in the lake.

4/16/2025 3:00 PM

Everything if good the way it is

4/16/2025 2:59 PM

Make the whole lake no wake for safety.

4/16/2025 2:53 PM

Please apply common sense and safety when making a decision. No one needs to go fast in what little open space there is and the wake negatively affects everyone with a boat.

4/16/2025 2:51 PM

Make it all no wake!!

4/16/2025 2:50 PM

No wake rules are overdue.

4/16/2025 2:46 PM

No.

4/16/2025 2:45 PM

No additional restriction's needed

4/16/2025 2:42 PM

No fun if you own a fast boat! But necessary because there are so many more people trying to enjoy the waterways. Safety first!

4/16/2025 2:33 PM

No

4/16/2025 2:26 PM

No wake should be observed in all areas that apply common sense.

4/16/2025 2:23 PM

Sooner the better

4/16/2025 2:22 PM

The Kalamazoo River can be very tricky to navigate, especially in the narrow areas (such as at the north end of Water Street or at the east entrance to the Cove) and even more so when water levels are low; the proliferation of rental boats (electric boats and pontoon boats in particular) has made boating increasingly hazardous over the past 5-6 years, especially when combined with large number of paddle boarders and kayakers on the river; most of those operating rental boats have no idea how to operate a boat safely, and particularly have no idea at what speed a boat generates wake that causes risk to others; way too many of the boats passing through the narrowest parts of the river such as the area that parallels Water Street, or pass close to the marinas, and near to Red Dock are operated in a manner that is very unsafe for those onboard docked boats and risks significant damage to those boats.

4/16/2025 2:22 PM

No

4/16/2025 2:19 PM

All no wake, huge supporter.

4/16/2025 2:14 PM

No

4/16/2025 2:01 PM

No.

4/16/2025 1:58 PM

I like the idea, I’d support it

4/16/2025 1:58 PM

39 / 42

Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 269

No

4/16/2025 1:55 PM

Local law enforcement has made comments that enforcing a no wake on Kalamazoo Lake would be problematic and require additional resources. This is an absurd argument. If true then it would follow that we shouldn't have a no wake zone in the river or out the channel to Lake Michigan because they cannot enforce it 24/7/365. Simply having the no-wake in place on Kalamazoo Lake will eliminate the majority of the problems associated with excessive wake.

4/16/2025 1:53 PM

Boaters that cause damage to property should be liable for the repairs especially boaters in cruisers that take 75% of the wake zone to plane. Boaters who park in marinas should expect some waves from wind and weather so expecting flat water is not realistic. One hand for the boater, another for the boat. That should not be considered a safety issue.

4/16/2025 1:52 PM

We do not need this change. There is no documented issues and it will hurt tourism business.

4/16/2025 1:52 PM

I’m curious if we start with signage to better identify no wake areas, before making changes to it

4/16/2025 1:50 PM

More enforcement

4/16/2025 1:48 PM

Need to be strongly enforced

4/16/2025 1:45 PM

No

4/16/2025 1:41 PM

DREDGE THE LAKE!!!

4/16/2025 1:39 PM

Just for Silver lake. Wake boarding is hazardous to personal property

4/16/2025 1:35 PM

Unless experienced first hand many residents do not realize the impact that the constant wake has on the surrounding marinas and boats at anchor in the middle of Lake Kalamazoo. There are numerous lakes that are larger than Lake Kalamazoo that have been made slow no wake areas in the state.

4/16/2025 1:28 PM

Large wakes on any inland lake should be kept 200 feet from the shoreline. That gives enough area for dispersion of the wake and preserves the seawalls along river/lake shoreline.

4/16/2025 1:22 PM

Someone is going to get killed with the way it is now! It needs to be changed to no wake.

4/16/2025 1:21 PM

Boaters treat the boating lane in front of Tower Marine like it's a marked race track.

4/16/2025 1:17 PM

Yes, the entire area between the two bridges

4/16/2025 1:12 PM

Slow no wake charts posted at boat launches and at the city docks would be helpful.

4/16/2025 1:07 PM

More patrolling and enforcing by the sheriff boats. Warnings or citations for the boat rental businesses.

4/16/2025 12:59 PM

The lake area should allow recreational boating - tubing, skiing etc. Wake zones should only be permitted on the river where it’s a tighter space.

4/16/2025 12:48 PM

The lake is not large enough to allow wakes. All of the lake from the causeway to Lake Michigan should be a no wake zone zone. Wakes damage boats moored at theit slips. I own a 36' Tiara and I am a 20 yr. + boater.

4/16/2025 12:44 PM

No

4/16/2025 12:38 PM

No

4/16/2025 12:28 PM

If the marinas have issues with the wake, they should consider partnering with the cities to fund an additional marine patrol deputy or DNR officer to be in Kalamazoo Lake on a much more regular and permanent basis during the summer months. Additional enforcement at odd hours will certainly help with keeping rental boat operators and other boaters in compliance with the laws and wake zone buoys.

4/16/2025 12:27 PM

Slow down. Enforce laws.

4/16/2025 12:26 PM

I am for reducing the no wake regulations. Over the past years the no wake buoys have extended deeper into the Kalamazoo Lake and around Blue Star Bridge.

4/16/2025 12:20 PM

Please also consider damage to sea walls from wake, as this is also damage to local people's only protection from water damage. Changing to a no wake zone if the only option I see to keep locals property and persons safe.

4/16/2025 12:13 PM

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Need more enforcement on the river north of the lake.

4/16/2025 12:12 PM

No wake should apply to all boats regardless of size or type.

4/16/2025 12:10 PM

Leave them alone.

4/16/2025 12:09 PM

See #13

4/16/2025 12:06 PM

It is fine the way it is

4/16/2025 12:06 PM

No-wake will benefit everyone and no-wake doesn’t mean “no fun”. I do not believe we have the man-power at this time to enforce these rules, however, let alone “driving a boat while intoxicated”.

4/16/2025 12:02 PM

It's already not very well-marked where no wake start/stops (like in front of Sargeant; and there's confusion going under the bridge too). And if no wake is enacted only for certain boats or at certain times, it's just going to be more confusing, especially for those who don't boat here often. The fact of the matter is, weather (high winds/waves on Lake Michigan) and water levels (Iow, so getting back to Silver Lake isn't possible for most boats) usually determine whether people end up wanting to do rec activities on Kalamazoo Lake. Those things aren't in our control and will always be fluctuating. Kalamazoo Lake is way too small and currently too shallow in much of it to do any recreational powerboating in. I support the no-wake lake, and support it being all-or-nothing. It's bound to be confusing, otherwise.

4/16/2025 11:52 AM

Fishing boats on the east side of the bridge and and east of the 196 bridge go fast the east side of the bridge

4/16/2025 11:46 AM

The existing wake regulations work fine. They are adequately enforced. This is a solution looking for a problem.

4/16/2025 11:41 AM

I try not to go boating on weekends or holidays the density makes the entire trip form Shultz park boat launch to Lake Michigan a slow putt, up to 40 minutes. No Wake! Kal Lake is small. If you want to drop anchor off the Red Dock and hear the band, it is no fun if the entire area is wake washed. For those of us with smaller craft, 18 feet and under, we need the River and Kal lake when the wave height starts passing the one foot or higher mark on the big lake.

4/16/2025 11:40 AM

No

4/16/2025 11:39 AM

They are disregarded coming out of Douglas into Lake Kalamazoo.

4/16/2025 11:36 AM

No

4/16/2025 11:33 AM

The sailing instructors at SYC need to use a wake for helping patrol the children sailing safely.

4/16/2025 11:24 AM

Continue to have no wake zones near the marinas but not the entire lake.

4/16/2025 11:21 AM

See #13

4/16/2025 11:17 AM

If you make Kzoo lake no wake, you'll drive more people up to Silver Lake which can't handle even the traffic of those that live on the lake. Granted, the water will be too low for many to get to Silver this year but when the level comes back up, it will cause issues.

4/16/2025 11:16 AM

It’s already restricted enough. Takes forever to get to lake Mi between the river restrictions and existing restrictions on Kal lake. Leave it alone.

4/16/2025 11:13 AM

Leave them alone

4/16/2025 11:11 AM

I believe it is needed for safety. My boat was parked next to the only fuel dock on the lake and many times I witnessed large wakes pose a safety risk to the folks fueling boats. Damage has occured on boats that is never reported.

4/16/2025 11:10 AM

Just don’t like them. Boating is moving. It gets really hot out there. It takes forever to get through the channel.

4/16/2025 11:04 AM

See above.

4/16/2025 11:04 AM

I believe the population of boats, personal watercraft, and kayaks/paddleboards has increased in the last 5 years, posing potential risk and safety concerns. The low water levels, and unmarked "island effects" areas which are extremely shallow, add to the safety concerns for boats operating at speed vs. no wake speeds. This is a smart survey, and an issue which has be long neglected. Thank you!

4/16/2025 11:02 AM

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Kalamazoo Lake No-Wake Regulations 317

further education on what defines a wake. As a boat owner, most have little to no understanding on what defines a wake.

4/16/2025 11:01 AM

NO CHANGES!!!!!!

4/16/2025 11:01 AM

We would love to see the stretch of river along Harbor Road in the Township designated as a no wake zone.

4/16/2025 10:59 AM

The entire lake should be a no wake zone at all hours

4/16/2025 10:58 AM

Increasing the area of no-wake and attempting to increase enforcement is a public safety issue as well as environmental i.e. damage to docks, moored boats and destruction of the shoreline.

4/16/2025 10:58 AM

We also paddle board there but survey would not let me check both. Boats are very unsafe around paddle boards and most do not slow down or stay the proper distance away.

4/16/2025 10:49 AM

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